What are the tricks for doing a french manicure?

I do my own nails usually, and recently I decided I want to paint my nails with a french manicure. I have only had it done once in a salon.

Is there a particular brand polish you would recommend for the white tip? Should I get some sort of brush to remove paint if I don’t draw it on well? How long do I need to let the white dry before I paint over? How many coats of the top color? Do I do a clear topcoat over everything? Do I use base coat underneath everything like I do for color?

I need any suggestions for the whole detailed process.

Thanks.