@bumblebees you want to keep it about as moist as a well wrung sponge. don't drown it as this will smother aerobic bacteria and produce odor. A shady spot can be good for compost in a hot area because that will keep it from drying out too much. Dry compost will break down more slowly. You want to pick a site for it that is close to a water source. Keep it turned enough so that it stays light and easy to work. you don't want it becoming compacted. This will cut off the bacterial supply of air.
@bumblebees a compost pile that is working will produce its own heat. if you want to see how things are coming along, run a stick through the middle of the pile, then pull it out and feel it. if it's warm to the touch, bacteria are at work!