When I harvest this is what I do (step by step)...
1. Cut plant down at the bottom of the stalk.
2. Clip off and throw away fan leaves.
3. Clip off and save smaller leaves which are around the buds.
4. Hang the plant upside down in a cool, dark, well ventilated place. Also, put the saved leaves on some type of tray and put it in the same area for drying.
5. Leave in that state until the buds are dry on the outside.
6. Begin curing process. Remove buds from stems/stalks and place them in air tight jars or zip lock bags (do not compact the buds in these containers).
7. Put the jars/baggies in a cool dark place (even the fridge is a good place if you have room).
8. Open each jar/baggie every day and allow fresh air to get in. Mix the buds around so they all get some fresh air.
9. Leave the buds in this state for a couple of weeks or until the insides of the buds are dry yet not TOO dry. They should be soft when squeezed (you should know how a good quality bud should feel and smell when its ready to smoke).
10. You're done. Its time to smoke!