Hey, I'm new to the site, but not new to body work. I have been working in a shop, or and my own since the 10th grade work program in high school (graduated in 87).One thing you have to watch out with a dent on the hood is that it will run on you. With the metal of the hood being so thin the heat from sanding will make it run and get bigger. Also after straighting the metal the filler needs to be able to stick to it. Normal progression of sandpaper grit is sanding the metal, maybe an 1/2 -1 inch out side the dent with 36 grit, then 80 grit out about another inch. Then spread the filler, sanding the filler down with 80 grit, after you have it the way you like it, a couple coats of primer. When it is dry enough to sand without gumming up, sand it with 180 grit to take out the 80 grit scratches, prime again. Then you should be ready to sand with 320 grit to take out the 180 grit scratches and get ready paint. Sorry if I am rambling.