Picture yourself trying to climb to the top of the Empire State Building. If you take your time, rest when you have to, and don't care if the trip takes all day, you'll probably make it. But if you try to sprint to the top, skipping every other stair, unless you're a really well-conditioned athlete, you'll probably collapse and give up. It's the same with shaping. Trying to take steps that are too big too quickly will ultimately result in failure.
Plentiful rewards are also essential.
Reward early and often. So basic, it includes a chapter on how to watch and understand a dog show. For the more seasoned handler, it includes tips from professional handlers, judges, and breeders. And it ranges far beyond the AKC, covering the UKC, ARBA, CKC, and FCI as well. Whether you just want to understand what you're seeing when Westminster is televised, or want to stand with your dog in the big ring there someday, this book can help.