Installing kitchen cabinets can be tall order

Dear Tim: Can you give me some tips about how to install kitchen cabinets? I've never done it before and don't want to make any big mistakes.

I'm attempting this after a cabinet installer gave me a bid that took my breath away. He had said my installation job would not be that hard, so I expected a lower number, one that I could afford. If I do install my cabinets, what tools will I need? - Kelly K., Beloit, Wis.

Dear Kelly: Do-it-yourself cabinet installations can range from simple to extremely difficult.

Without seeing the plan of your kitchen and the cabinet layout, I can't say whether you'll be successful or not. I'll tell you right now that the odds are against …