I don't cut yardage until I need it.
My scraps usually get cut into strips from 2-1/2" to 1-1/2" for basket weave scrap quilts.
If I decide to sew 2-1/2" squares then I cut them to that size. They finish at 2".
I haven't done that too many times.
For my donation quilts I find 7-1/2" squares work nicely. 6 across and 8 down. I alternate them.