Start with a small pile of lump,a handfull or 2, I even unload some if there is too much leftover from the prior cook.

Light this from under the ash grate (the only way I ever fire up) and let the coals get red hot. The temp may climb to 300* but don't worry the ceramics aren't heated up yet and it will drop quickly when you open the dome.

Put a layer of lump over the hot coals. Then a layer of chips and or chunks, I wet mine first. Then more lump to the level you need for your length of cook. By the time you put your food on and close it up you are back down to under 150*.

Hopefully I did Char-Woody justice with my explanation.