How much coal to use

[amshepar]

I have always followed the instructions from Noah and used a full basket.  I've said it before that I wouldn't sacrifice too few charcoal briquettes if I was doing a long cook (ribs, brisket, whole turkey) but for just a night of grilling burgers or chicken wings I would like to start reducing the amount of briquettes I use.  I just don't need 6-8 hours of cook time. 

Has anybody kept a log or done enough tinkering with the amount of charcoal they use that they can pass along what has worked consistently for them? 

Also, when using less charcoal are you still spreading across the entire basket evenly, or are you stacking any in the middle?

Thanks in advance for the feedback.

[1Bigg_ER]

I use half a basket of lit lump for wings (rebars off), single chicken, spread evenly over the basket.
You need all the coals ignited if you're grilling.