Get a dropper, and put a drop on your scalp, one drop a time. Tilt your head and let it roll about as far as it will go (takes 5-10 seconds). Then add the next drop in a different location. If you do it this way, you will get all the minoxidil on your scalp, not on your hair. Your hair will feel dry and look dry unless you rub your fingers into the scalp.
When applying minoxidil, no not rub it really thin. That will just make it dry out before it penetrates. It needs some depth to really penetrate, though not too much or it rolls and rips off. You do not need an even coat. It spreads out under the skin at least 1/4 inch, maybe even 1/2 inch. So even if you could get an even coat, it is probably better to have rows, just to make sure it does not dry too fast.
I just applied my liquid minoxidil, and looking at my hair and running my hand across the top of it, I can't tell I have any minoxidil in my hair.
When applying minoxidil, no not rub it really thin. That will just make it dry out before it penetrates. It needs some depth to really penetrate, though not too much or it rolls and rips off. You do not need an even coat. It spreads out under the skin at least 1/4 inch, maybe even 1/2 inch. So even if you could get an even coat, it is probably better to have rows, just to make sure it does not dry too fast.
I just applied my liquid minoxidil, and looking at my hair and running my hand across the top of it, I can't tell I have any minoxidil in my hair.