I have 3 NM cables that will be run from my panel to the opposite wall in my garage. My understanding is that most staples are listed for a maximum of 2 cables. I’m trying to figure out the best way to secure them? I thought about using cable stackers, but I always read comments from people saying that they look sloppy/unprofessional. To me they look fine, so maybe it’s just a difference of opinion. I guess that I could staple 2 together and staple the 3rd one by itself. I don’t think I have room on the stud to staple all three separately. Are there any derating issues with 2 cables under one staple? It’s about an 8’ run. I appreciate any input.

I have done a lot of electrical work in my home, and I have tried to get a good understanding of the NEC. I feel like I struggle sometimes with actually doing the installation. I know what needs to be done, but I'm sometimes not sure of the best way to do it. I wanted to see if anyone could answer a few questions and possibly give me some tips: 1. When installing a new circuit, is it better to start at the panel or where the new circuit terminates? If it doesn't matter, is one preferable to the other? 2. Do you strip the NM jacket before inserting the cable into the box or after? I used to strip the jacket first, but I recently nicked the insulation on one of the conductors. I was pulling it through, and the internal clamp damaged the insulation. 3. Should I leave any extra slack in the panel when installing a new circuit? I noticed one of the electricians that I used left extra length in the panel, which I assume makes it easier to move the circuit if necessary. 4. Is there any best practice for putting wires back into a junction box? I try to keep the hots and neutrals on opposite sides, but I didn't know if there was a preferred method. If anyone has any other pointers or suggestions, please feel free to share them! Thanks in advance for any input.