If you don't mind, here's some thoughts on your list.
1)dump powder into barrel
Only after measuring the powder with a black powder volume measure. Also, pour from the measure, never directly from a powder horn or flask.
2) pack powder tight.
This step is not needed.
3) wrap ball shot in patch
This is best done by laying the patch on the muzzle of the gun. Then, after placing the ball in the center of the patch and pushing it a little into the barrel use a short starter or block of wood to force the patch and ball in. The combined size will be larger than the bore of the gun.
4) shove shot and patch down tube. Ram hard to powder.
Sounds good but don't try to do this in one big stroke. Instead, grab the ramrod about 8-12 inches above the bore. Push it down and repeat grabbing the ramrod 8-12" above the bore and then ram it down. Continue this until you feel the ball stop on the powder.
One more push to make sure the patched ball is down and then remove the ramrod.
By the way, all of this should be done without a cap or fragments of a cap on the nipple and the hammer should be at half cock.
5) half cock the hammer
As I mentioned, the hammer should be at half cock before you start.
6) put percussion cap on nipple
Sounds good.
7) full cock hammer
Yup.
8) squeeze first trigger to engage second trigger
By first trigger you mean the rear trigger on most set triggers.
At this point I know what to do.
Things I might mention:
If unlubricated patches are being used, rub in some lube on the side of the patch that's going to be against the bore.
Before the first shot is loaded in a percussion rifle it's a good idea to "pop" a cap on the nipple. This helps to blow out any oil/grease that might have settled in the nipple or flame channel to the bore.
I just noticed your additional questions:
Extra questions: a) ive read in some places that you use lubed patches. Why or why not?
Pre lubed patches can be handy if they are new. If they have been sitting on a store shelf for a year or more they can be blown apart when they are fired. The oil breaks down the fiber over time.
B) do I clean between shots?
You will get 100 different opinions from 100 people. I only wipe the bore when loading starts to get difficult. Usually after 3-5 shots.
The target shooters who are looking for the ultimate accuracy wipe after each shot.
C) how do you clean a traditional muzzleloader.
Use water along with a few drops of dishwashing soap to break down any lube left by the patch.
As for the exact method, the same 100 people mentioned above will give you 125 different ways.
Browse thru our forum. You will find hundreds of posts about how to clean your gun.
The most important thing to remember is the fouling from black powder (or all of the synthetic black powders) will cause rust. Do not put off cleaning your gun. It should be done as soon as possible.