Pile the charcoal into a neat mound or pyramid to increase contact and help the fire grow faster. Use less charcoal for small cooks and more for large cooks.

Carefully squirt the lighter fluid on the top and sides of the charcoal mound. Usually you need about a 10-second squirt for a chimney's worth of charcoal to get proper coverage. To make sure you’re using the right amount, follow your lighter fluid’s directions.

Light immediately after applying the fluid. Never squirt lighter fluid onto flaming or hot coals.