For cutting across the grain, I score and cut to the line with a circ saw - using the smallest saw that has enough depth of cut to do the job. I rarely need to pair across the end grain.
For cutting with the grain, such as the tenon cheeks, I don't always score. I usually use the big mak from the end, then flip it over and do the other side. If the timber has a lot of crown, I'll definitely leave some space between the kerf and the line, then pare back to the line with a slick - sometimes with the grain, sometimes across the side grain. CB.
