One good way to reduce error by flying the wrong STAR or one you were not cleared for is to start your approach briefing with the item "clearance limit is..."
This gives both pilots a chance to confirm if a STAR was received or not, and if it's the one inserted in the FMS.ä
If you are approaching your clearance limit (last point om the ATC fpl before destination) and no STAR received, it prompts you to ask the controller for clarification....
A long time ago, for fuel planning purposes, our flight plans were calculated with "shortest SID longest STAR". Entering a "likely" STAR preflight or during cruise also gives you the opportunity to assess the impact on your fuel/flight time.