Learning to paint....

So this is contrary to what I've seen, in that I thought the bare metal coats were done straight 1:1, no thinning, two med-wet coats. Do body work, spot spray as you go along, then high build, block sand, then seal with epoxy again, "thinned" to lay down a smooth layer, then BC/CC.

Is that not right? Variations for different scenarios?
Correct you can thin it a little if you want to use it as a sealer before you spray color. Let it sit a few minutes, but I would not do this in this day of much better materials. Your sealer should be the same brand as you color and clear. Mix brands and ask for trouble.