Know the top jacks are always used for outputs. Plug the outputs of your audio interface and your gear into the top jacks located on the back of the bay. Know the bottom jacks are always used for the inputs of your audio interface and other outboard gear. Avoid connecting a front panel output located on the top of your patchbay to another front panel output on the top. Avoid connecting a front panel input on the bottom to another front panel input on the bottom.
Know that in "Normal" mode, the output jack located on the top back of your patchbay automatically flows to the input on the bottom back, unless something is plugged into the front "A" jack on the top. The signal path is broken as soon as the plug is inserted into the front jack on top. Know that in "Half Normal" mode, the output signal that goes to the input jacks is not broken when a plug is inserted. Know that in "Thru" mode, the signal located on the top back goes to the top front only. The signal does not go to the lower inputs on the back.
Write down the things that are plugged into the back of your device. Refer to this often.