Head Porting basics

So I've got some X heads on my 360 that I'd like to port this winter when I change cams. I know there's a lot of smart porting guys on here so what do I need to know? Lay out the basics and school me on it, what should I use for bits? Am I looking for perfectly smooth ports or can a little texture be helpful?

Are there porting templates available for LA heads? I haven't had luck finding them. Thanks all, I look forward to learning some things here.