I started out just around the post area

but now I can put my hand on the whole release and pull,just making sure the pressure is on the post.
Don't worry about switching back and forth,I did it while I was learning and it helped with the wrist release,even if I didn't completely have the bt yet.
You do want to make a complete commitment at some point though.The setup on the bow will probably change slightly if you are wanting to shoot full time with a bt but I don't advise it for hunting.