If I'm loading for an auto loading action I load 5 of each powder weight increment, and 2 for most all other type actions.
For instance, if I were working up a load in .40 S&W- 135 gr. Nosler JHP & Longshot. The charge table shows a start charge of 8.0 grs., max is 11.0 grs.. I would load 5 with 8.0 grs., 5 with 8.2 grs., 5 with 8.4 grs. until I've reached 10.0 grs. Once I'm at about the middle of the powder charge range, which is 1 grs. in this example, I continue my sets of 5, but now in .1 grain increments.
High powered rifle is about the same thing, it's just that there is more to evaluate, and it's done at longer distances, and hopefully over a chronograph because it will provide a nice BDC base line to work with down the road. I look the web area over real well, inspect the case head for signs of extractor impressions, primer signs, and so on. We'll save how to read your loads for another time.
I make log book entries regarding pressures and performance characteristics.
Example of something I might document: (8.0 gr.) load did not fully cycle the slide on 3 rounds fired, (8.2 grs.) Primers are very domed looking and protruding about .050" above the case head on all 5 rounds fired. The notes I log per load development will include any element of the load, including field notes from hunting trips.
Log books are monumental in this hobby, there is such a wealth of important information that needs to be recorded. Other wise you find yourself back at square #1 the next time you load with those same components. Not only does it save a bunch of time and $ spent on components, I also use one to document how it performed on it's intended target, be that a deer or paper. I love it when my Son walks in the door and hands me a box of bullets and says, "load me up with some stuff for mule deer, I need it this week end". So because I keep extremely detailed records, I no longer have to go through the whole process each time I load a for a specific weapon, using a specific bullet, using a specific powder, using a specific primer, using a specific head stamp. I've been doing it this way for so many years, and I have to tell ya, it's a great feeling to know I can just look at the log book and every important detail is right there. But that doesn't mean I don't use my books, I cross check every log entry against published SAAMI approved data.
I apologize for the long answer, but it seemed as though you were looking for a complete work up procedure. I hope this helped you.
GS