well, as can be seen, there are various methods. I like the potatoes shredded, but not 'riced' (there are food graters that will give you various 'fineness' of final product)

Then, I like to press the shredded potatoes into the pan of oil until they are a relatively thin (3/4 in. or less) layer, cut the round layer into 4 pie shaped segments, and fry them until they can be turned without falling apart. I like them pretty well browned on the outside, but still tender in the center. This is just a personal thing, I will eat them even if stirred so that there is a pan full of small potato chunks...I just prefer the patty style.

My big difference is that, once cooked...(preferably with spicy sausage patties on the side)..I like to eat them with pancake/waffle syrup and a good dose of black pepper! (very little or no onion for me)...

so....I guess you have a nice batch of possible recipes, greg! Happy experimenting!