How do you tape & mud sheetrock joints properly?

It will depend on the tape but basically you use the mud to stick the tape up. I always finish in 3 passes of mud. First pass is enough to hold up the tape and feather slightly. Let it dry and clean up any excess with a damp sponge. Apply a second coat taking it out slightly wider. Clean up and when dry, apply a 3rd coat. Then finish by smoothing with a damp sponge.

Here's a youtube video that might provide you some additional tips. Hope it helps you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQHSV-ZJQyg

Hello, I think you can actually rent a drywall taping "banjo" it applies the mud and tape with a dispenser, otherwise you can apply the tape over the gaps, then mud over it and use a wide spatula to spread it. It is better to add and sand then it is to put too much on at the start. Hope this video helps you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omZb0HoXLHs

The old-school guy who taught me to tape and mud said the secret is to use paper tape (not mesh) and to dampen it before use. He said this makes the paper tape a little more pliable and also helps it bond with the mud, leading to less separation later on. This was how he did it:

Spread a reasonably thin layer of mud along the joint.

Run the paper tape through water and wipe off excess by running it gently between your fingers. You want it damp, not wet.

Apply the tape (now slightly pliable) over the mud and press very gently

Apply a second thin coat of mud over the tape, feathering it out and making it as smooth as possible

Clean up with a damp sponge (like for car washing) when the mud is almost dry.

When I have used this method, it has always gone well and I have had little sanding to do and never had a problem with the paper separating from the wall.