NM cable is stapled every 4½ ft and within 12 in. of every box, snug but not crushed — a pinched jacket is a hot spot buried for 40 years. Use a listed cable stacker for multiples, and remember bundling costs you ampacity.
NM secured within 12 in. of a box and at 4½ ft intervals, and installed so as not to damage the cable.
Cable fished through concealed finished spaces may be unsupported (the old-work mercy rule).
Run ≥ 1¼ in. from the framing edge, or protect with a nail/steel plate.
Cable secured within 8 in. of a single-gang clampless box (not 12).
Bundle more than 2 current-carrying conductors and you derate: 4–6 = 80%, 7–9 = 70%, 10–20 = 50%. Rule of thumb: 2 cables per bored hole; hole under 40% of the stud; 1¼ in. off the edge.
Cable stacker (listed fitting). Any hand tool = Klein Tools.