I did a 17 x 20 patio on my old house over the course of a few weeks.
I cleared the sod and packed the ground. Enure the drainage is away from your house.
A layer of landscaping fabric and then about 2-3 inched of sand. The sand kept everything level.
I line the perimeter with landscape ties and worked toward the house and around my back step. Took me a while but I do know it is still there today after about 8 years.
Take your time and it should be ok.
Good luck.
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