And yes, at some competitions, judges DO indeed bring their Dazor lamps to examine very closely. Although they may not be able to see the back of a finished piece of needlework, they can tell what it's like simply by using light and magnification. A. Cross stitches should all cross the same way unless you are altering them to achieve a particular effect. The stitch tension should be the same for all stitches of the same kind. If specialty stitches are used, they should be used for a reason and not indiscriminately just to use them.
Judges do like to see a variety of stitching or techniques used if they're done appropriately.
E. No tails on the back of the stitchery. Yup, they do show through the fabric. Most major competitions do not allow the loop method of anchoring floss. I have not yet had the opportunity to research why that is, but I'll let you know when I find out. Some judges look for that, while others don't.