I do pleats a very "cheap and nasty" way ..... well at least some times. In particular, I do this when the pleat is two folds meeting in the middle. For some reason, I just struggle with having those two folds staying together, without either overlapping slightly, or leaving a tiny little gap.
So, pick the point where the pleat is supposed to be centred. Along that line, fold the fabric, right sides together. Measure out the width of the pleat, and then sew down from the fabric edge for about 2-3inches, with a basting stitch. On the back, press the pleat flat (either with an even amount both sides, or all to one side depending on the pattern) and then baste along the fabric edge to anchor the pleat. Continue with the construction process (ie: attach the waistband/bodice). Once the seam is finished and therefore the pleat is anchored, very carefully remove the basting stitches holding the pleat closed. Press again to set the crease ..... and voila .... one (or more) perfectly presentable pleats.
I appreciate this is not the accepted method of sewing pleats. Still, for me it works.