You need to use a core aerator that removes plugs or cores from the turf. Do not think that gold shoes or crow bars or screw drivers will do the job as well as a machine that removes plugs. You can rent a core aerator but these are heavy machines and experience has taught me it is better to hire a professional to do the job. Do not rake up the cores - they will break down and return to the soil. Once you aerate take full advantage of the holes by adding fertilizer, compost and lime so these addivitives can fall into the open holes. Add the seed at the very end. Sound like you'll have a lovely lawn next spring. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti