The history of drywall begins around 1915. The major component is the mineral gypsum, which is processed into sheets and then wrapped in paper. A variation of the basic drywall is greenboard, which is designed to be more moisture-resistant, and up until recently was the preferred backer for ceramic tile in bathrooms. Today, cement fiber backer board is preferred, and mandated by the local building code in many areas.
Ensure Proper Framing Before Hanging Drywall

Drywall, or Sheetrock (The term Sheetrock is actually a brand name), is 4' wide. The length is 8' or longer by multiple of 2'; 8', 10', or 12' in most cases. So it's important that framing is level, plumb, and spaced as dictated by the local structural building code.

The spacing is almost always 16” or 24” on center. The reason for this is so the drywall sheets and the framing match so the drywallers can make good joints. Before beginning, make sure the framing is complete and add cripples (short studs) where needed. This is usually between headers and top plates.
Drywall Screws or Nails?

With metal framing, screws are always used. With wood, either will do, although screws are gaining in popularity because nails may “pop” over time. To minimize popping, always add a “helper nail”. In other words, an additional one within an inch or so.

Screws are usually installed with a screw gun because they have a clutch and an adjustable nose to allow the screw head to be set at the proper depth. There are two types of screws; fine-thread and coarse-thread. Fine is for metal or steel framing, and the coarse ones are for wood.Kelly Smith