Cracks

• 1). Sand the area with medium grit sandpaper. Remove any loose particles around the crack.
  
  
• 2). Fill any small cracks with joint compound. Place drywall tape into the wet plaster for reinforcement.
  
  
• 3). Allow the plaster to dry. Sand the area smooth, and repeat with layers of joint compound or drywall mud until the ceiling is smooth.
  
  

Nail and Screw Pops

• 1). Use a screwdriver to tighten and adjust the loose screw back into the wood. Hammer in nails that are loose.
  
  
• 2). Cover the area with a thin layer of joint compound. Use a putty knife to skim the surface of the ceiling when you apply the compound. Let the plaster dry.
  
  
• 3). Repeat the process, adding additional layers of plaster to the surface. Sand each layer with fine grit sanding paper, and wipe away the drywall dust with a damp cloth.