Avoid over beating the cream cheese or beating at high speed. Over beating incorporates air into the batter, causing the cheesecake to puff un and then collapse.
The best position for a cheesecake is in the lowest shelf in a gas oven, as the heat is slightly cooler down the bottom, which will help achieve an even bake. If using an electric oven, position the cheesecake on the centre rack, well clear of the heating elements. For fan forced ovens, reduced the temperature by 20ºC
Provide a moist baking environment for your cheesecake by placing a small bowl of hot tap water on the bottom of the oven. The steaming effect created helps prevent burning and the drying out the cake crumbs.
Avoid overbaking. A cheesecake is cooked when the edges are slightly puffed and the centre is slightly soft and custard like.