Modulation

[mad_max2024]

I suck at it.

I've been experimenting with improvisation and found that I can improvise acceptably within a given key, but when I try to change I make a mess.
How would you guys go about making your modulation smoother while improvising?

Do you use a common chord to both keys?
Do you change a major to minor chord or vice versa?
Do you raise/lower a whole or half step to the key above or below (i.e. B to C)
Do you do something else?

Any advice or ideas?

[Bob]

I was told to modulate as smoothly as possible in theory class.  Common chord works well. 

Or just making on chormatic note change. 

The near keys are easier to get too. 

Personally I like the sound of a third though. 

[dan101]

Try experimenttig with different quality chords that have a common root (like your major to minor suggestion). For example, try CM, Cm, C+, Cdim, C dom7, Cdim7, C half dim.
There are so many tricks to modulation. Take it one trick at a time. Good luck.