I fly a Focus- this and other pattern planes I've flown... I use the following technique.

I increased the elevator throw quite significantly to get nice clean snaps. I've also used dual rate for snaps because of this. I go deep in the elevator, particularly at the start to give it a nice clean break. I normally leave almost all of it in throughout the snap (with my pattern plane, but not toc plane)

Second, I snap away (from me). Any heading change in this direction is less impact on the overall presentation.

Lastly, if its windy, normally snap with the wind- particularly on the 45 upline. That way the (weather vane tendency) corrects the exit. You are also better positioned for the next maneuver (reverse top hat) effectively.

Hope that helps.
Don