[header] How to do drywall repair [title] Purchase a joint compound. [step] The two commonly available joint compounds are lightweight and all-purpose. Lightweight compound dries quicker than all-purpose and requires less sanding. 
[substeps] Joint compound comes in a variety of container sizes, but be advised that smaller containers may cost just as much as the larger ones. If resealed properly, joint compound can be kept for up to 9 months for other around-the-house repairs if you end up with leftover compound.