I design on EQ7 and print out a line drawing of the actual block (like the kind used in PP). I usually tape the paper to cardboard and keep it close by. I can tell pretty quick when I have something wrong if I compare my pieces to the schematic. Of course I still have seam allowances on my pieces, but it is helpful to me to see if the pieces are big enough and seem to follow the pattern. It is a check that I need. As to actual trimming, I wouldn't trim until I have the other adjoining pieces done. Trimming is a terminal decision-there is no coming back from cutting something too small.