The 3G plate test is sometimes used for MIG welding certification tests.
This video will be particularly helpful for a 3G certification test with uphill and downhill root passes.
Weld sequence can help prevent distortion.
Jody Collier from WeldingTipsAndTricks explains "the bird's nest".
Working with your machine to start getting better (less frustrating) results right out of the gate.
Start here if you'd like Jody Collier, of WeldingTipsAndTricks YouTube fame, to get you going.
Mig welding basics, machine settings, fundamentals; getting started with MIG welding.