Embed Tape and Clean Edges

What happens here

With the paper tape laid over the wet mud, use your taping knife to embed the tape. Start from the center of the taped section and firmly drag the knife outwards towards the ends. Apply consistent pressure to squeeze out excess drywall joint compound from underneath the tape, ensuring the tape is fully bonded to the wall and flat. Scrape off any excess mud that oozes out and return it to your mud pan. Finish by cleaning up the edges of your taped joint to create a smooth, feathered transition with the wall.

Goal: Smoothly embed the paper tape into the joint compound and clean up the seam