Don't accelerate as you start your pull. Not only does this cook you and the next guy, it might remove the last jump in your legs you need to get on the back. That's where the accelerations that matter, for 'nails', take place.
If the guy in front accelerates, tell him right away (eg: 'Steady'). In a race, if he's looking to break it up, he might ignore you, or he might really appreciate the feedback. And the pull you can do for him, if he pulls smoothly.
If you get gapped near the front, and closing it will be too tough, try saying 'steady', then swing out of the line so the rider behind can see what's happening and, you hope, close it. If you try to close it, but lose ground, and the following riders don't see it, it's a much bigger gap to close.
If you get gapped near the back, try getting riders coming back to fill the hole so you can stay in contact. Say 'Get in', clearly, when they are level with the last person in line. It might take a second for them to react, but they will also appreciate not having to close an even bigger gap later if they drop back behind you as you run out of steam.
It's a lot to think about when you're cross-eyed, the colour vision is fading, and coffee is looking better and better. But it is also a little triumph to overcome that, stay on, and maybe even attack later.
