i make sure to pay by due date and then dont spend anything until a statement is put up. 

for example my chase freedom is due 12/7 i pif on that day and then dont use it for a few days (usually the 10th) and then use it whenever. i use another card for the time being 

my balance due is always 0 since i pay in full so if for whatever reason i forget to pay it no hard since they are all new charges. 

Current: EQ FICO 690, TU FICO 692, Walmart TU 737 EX FICO 726 Amex Pull(1/1/13) Starting total revolving credit: $2600 | Current total revolving credit: $21,600 Inquiries (12 Months): EQ 6 TU 4 EX 5 | Most Recent: 8/30/2012

2013 Goals: Freedom Signature Costco:True Earnings

Amex Zync(Unicorn) Chase Freedom$1500 Citizens Mastercard$5000