Chemical kinetic models are essential tools for understanding and predicting the behavior of fuels in various thermochemical applications, including pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion processes. However, developing these models presents significant challenges in balancing accuracy, computational efficiency, and broad applicability across different operating conditions. Our paper presents a systematic, general procedure for developing chemical kinetic models that addresses these challenges through a structured, hierarchical approach. The methodology we describe has been refined through extensive experience and represents current best practices in the field. This work represents the culmination of years of dedicated research and methodological development within our CRECK Modeling Lab, where we have been advancing the field of chemical kinetic modeling for thermochemical processes.