The receptacle is the most-installed device in the house — and the easiest to get "almost" right. Seven common mistakes, what the NEC actually says about each, and how to spot them: the backstab (stay inside the listing), a backwards wrap, 6 in. of free conductor, missing GFCI, the replacement trap, skipped torque, and the wrong slot rating.
Backstabs are listed (UL 498), but the listing is narrow: 14 AWG solid copper only. 12 AWG, stranded, or a re-stab puts you outside the instructions. Legal is the floor, not the standard.
Wrap the hook clockwise so it closes as the screw tightens — a thoroughly good connection made without damaging the conductor.
Leave at least 6 in. of free conductor at each outlet, and at least 3 in. outside the opening — for serviceability.
GFCI protection where the rule lists it: baths, garages, outdoors, kitchens within 6 ft of a sink, and more. If the location is in the rule, the protection has to be there.
A replacement receptacle must meet today's rules — GFCI, AFCI, tamper-resistant, weather-resistant — not the day it was first installed.
Where a torque value is given, use a calibrated torque tool. Snug-by-feel is not a test instrument.
Straight slots = 15 A; T-slot = 20 A. A single receptacle on its own circuit must be rated not less than the circuit; for two or more, use Table 210.21(B)(3).
Devices: Leviton. Torque: Klein (in-lb). Any hand tool = Klein Tools.