four metal mask layout techniques
1)For start, you need to understand the device technologies you're going to use, for example CMOS. Most analog books will start with a chapter on device technology and some CMOS processing steps. Understand the device physics and try to visualize which layer is on top of another during the CMOS fabrication. It helps to visualize during your mask layout which is only 2D( I wonder one day Cadence may comes out with a 3 D version of layout we drew).
2)For analog design, Alan Hastings book is considered among the class.
For digital design,
-IC Layout Basics : A Practical Guide
by Christopher Saint, Judy Saint
-IC Mask Design: Essential Layout Techniques
by Christopher Saint, Judy Saint
3)As you need to abide by the design rules of the process you are going to use, you can draw out or list down the minimum distance for each layer can be placed or overlap. Although we would like our layout to be as compact as possible, you need to beware of eletromigation, current density, unnessary current induction, crosstalk etc.
4)Always perform LVS to ensure your layout is correct as the circuit you design.
5)Do post layout simulation because the way you drew your layout will introduce unnessary parasitic in your circuit which will degrade your circuit performance. Thus it will help to predict the degraded performance of the chip when fabricated opposed to simualation which is pure ideal case.
6)Prepare your own checklist for layout and lastly be patience an alert on your layout.