Best way to balance a reaction?

[gene_pool]

I was wondering what were the quickest techniques for balancing an equation. Got this question on AAMC 11, and I knew that it would take a lot of steps/time so I just guessed.

Here's the question:

"The reaction between glycerol (C3H8O3) and HNO3 produces nitroglycerin and water. The amount of HNO3 required to convert 1 mole of glycerol completely into nitroglycerin is closest to which of the following?"

A. 130g
B. 150g
C. 170g
D. 190g

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[gene_pool]

Oh actually, I see a shortcut now... If you knew what glycerol is, then you would know that you need 3 HNO3's...

Molecular mass x 3 = 189...

but still, what are the best ways to balance an equation? Like what should you generally start with?

 

[Cawolf]

I just realized this was a AAMC FL question.

I am deleting my answer as to not violate forum policy.