Start with the surface
A hard, fresh surface may offer consistent bounce; a worn or dry one can behave differently. Conditions vary by venue and over the course of a match, so avoid declaring a pitch 'batting-friendly' from one photograph.
Think about phases
In a short-format innings, teams make different decisions during the powerplay, middle overs and final overs. Surface behaviour can affect shot selection and bowling strategy in each phase.
Check the evidence
Compare similar matches at the same ground, and check the format, weather and official team information. Small samples can mislead.
Guide content is educational, not live match reporting.