Hi, I'm new to MFP and any tips would be helpful

I started at 234lb and dropped to 199 until I went on holiday and gave 7 back. I can only talk about what works for me. I plan my main meal for the week ahead in advance and buy all that I need in one shop to avoid impulse buys or cheats. I then enter all my planned food for the next day in on the evening before. That way I know at the start of every day what my calorie count is and what, if any, exercise I need to do each day to ensure I stay below my calorie target. I do go over my calorie count but always ensure I burn the excess in advance. If I want three or four pints on a Saturday night I burn the calories in advance. Hope something here helps and good luck with your efforts