I found that looking to see where brass flew, for later reloading use, created a bad habit in me, in bringing the rifle down between shoots to work the bolt. So to catch the brass or watch where it flew.

Realised this, and especially on a hunt, decided to correct this. Used my .22 RF BA and shot repeated magazines on the shoulder. Fixed the problem quite easily and quickly.

As for the thumb and forefinger method of working a bolt, no idea why that is considered superior???

No idea what I use. Have to hold the rifle and see what comes naturally to me. Don't think about it at all. Will give it a try.