When camping I generally like to build log cabin style. Large pieces on the outside, with small stuff in between the outer pieces on each layer, lowest layer has smaller twigs progressing bigger as it goes up. At the bottom center is the tinder (newspaper, fire sticks) and then some small twigs kindling leaning over that. This usually results in a good fire that just needs some large pieces added to it over time. Might burn a little high at the start, so adjust for wind and other safety considerations.

This assumes I'm lighting with a match or lighter. Something involving alternatives will have to have the tinder more accessible.