How can one approach interpreting diffuse (interstitial, alveolar, or mixed) lung shadows?

Answer the following questions:
Is the process acute or chronic?
Is the patient immunocompromised?
What type of pattern is noted (nodular, reticular, or reticulonodular)?
Is there miliary or diffuse airspace disease?
What is the zonal predominance?
Is there a known primary tumor?
Is there adenopathy?
Are there effusions?
Are there septal lines or bronchial wall thickening?