Micro guides keep a line close to guides and distant from the blank, which significantly improves casting as it reduces the friction of the line when you drop it
This is a lesson I learned the hard way, and one that sent me back to the more durable plastic baits that Id long prior (and have long since) relied on and caught tons of fish with
For a basic rig using split shots, you tie the hook on first and then crimp the sinker onto the line above it
And, you know, modern technology, she had a cell phone
Many anglers nowadays put a two-inch strip of clam or crab flavored Fish Bites artificial bait on the hook first, then follow with as many sand fleas as they can fit on the hook
Its important to ensure that the knot is tightened evenly