pre-first-print

motor current (correct stepper motor current)
axes (all axes parallel/perpendicular)
bed surface (ensure proper plastic adhesion)
bed level (extruder the same height at all points on bed)
Z steps/mm
extruder temperature
extruder steps/mm

post-first-print

XY steps/mm
layer height (adjust by .01 till beautiful)
infill (1.0 solid cube)

references