Do you have any tips for trigger control and sight alignment?

I'm trying to qualify at the range for my job. I've had some private lessons but they are getting to expensive and I don't have much money. So I know practice makes perfect...but what tips do you have for me to get my signs aligned properly and to not anticipate the recoil of the gun. Thanks...ohh...I shoot with a M&P (9mm Smith & Wesson)