overtightening the top strap will most likely make the platform you stand on not sit level, it will be cocked upwards. just make sure you keep the stand closed and put the back side flat against the tree. then snug the top strap and slam the platform down and add that bottom strap then tighten it up. thats all you gotta do. one other thing that I personally like to do is find a tree that starts to lean out near where you would put your stand. only a slight lean though. this way you can lean back just a little bit instead of sitting straight up and down. it will help you relax a little more and feel like you have a little more room to move. you'll see what i mean if you try it out. but good luck man