Newbie that needs help with a few things

[Osuna]

What controller are you using and what part of your hand is hitting start (and during what actions)?

[nabbitthebunny]

What controller are you using and what part of your hand is hitting start (and during what actions)?

I use a Xbox pad. My right thumb usually. Mostly in the middle of hard combos and when I'm extra tense

[Celerity]

I use a Xbox pad. My right thumb usually. Mostly in the middle of hard combos and when I'm extra tense

Don't use that, it's a big reason you're having so much trouble with IADs etc. Pad is fine, but I don't know a single person who can play competently on a stock XBox dpad. Personally I use a PS2 pad with an adapter, but you could also go for the Saturn pad, or one of many fightpads (those are usually mapped for claw grippers though).