Start with dry wood
Damp wood wastes heat boiling off water, burns poorly, and produces more smoke and creosote. Use seasoned wood, and store it off the ground and under cover.
Give the fire enough air
Closing the air control too far can leave a fire smouldering. Follow your stove's manual, and give a new fire more air until it is burning well.
Check the door seals
A worn door gasket lets air leak in, which makes the fire harder to control. If the gasket looks flattened or frayed, it may be time to replace it.
Look at the firebrick
Firebrick protects the stove body from direct heat. Small surface cracks can be normal, but bricks that are crumbling or missing pieces should be replaced.
Don't forget the chimney
Creosote or a blockage in the stove pipe or chimney can stop smoke from drawing properly. If smoke comes into the room when you open the door, have the chimney checked and cleaned before you keep burning.