Inconsistency and frustration

[Drubbing]

Hey all

I'm still using my 700D auto functions during the holidays, to ensure I get good shots, but 'it still hit and miss. I took too many poor shots on Xmas day flipping between manual and autos, and that's got me on the bad side of the mrs... So I'm keeping the learning process separate, that's the only time I go manual or semi auto for now.

But my question relates to auto. My Sony P&S takes consistently better shots than the 700D. By that I mean the Sony's might be a little under or overexposed, but they are usually focussed pretty well. With the 700d on either full auto or the portrait settings, I can take half a dozen shots and there will be ones with really poor exposure or focus - getting a good one is far more of a punt than with the Sony. Kids are always a problem, but this is even with adult subjects who are keeping still.

Any pointers on how I can improve this? My auto setting will allow me to refine the focus points, so there's no much I can do there.