Hi there Mr Rednaxela
The only problem I can see, when you try and cross-reference two plans or one plan & a build sequence; is the sequence that you build the actual model in. That is the only thing I can say that you would have to watch out for. Just as a rough guide; when I commenced the build from a plan and this is my method only - and a lot of people do have different methods - one of the first things I do is to see what size motor is going to fit into the model and what is available. I also check what size powerpack I require to supply the power to the model for a given time.
This information either comes from experience gained in model building; or, searching the web and forums such as this - for similar models and finding out what power supplies and motors they use with obviously what prop sizes. Once I am quite happy with this information; as a broad outline for power requirements - I then look at the materials to which I want to build the certain hull from. Sometimes the materials are suggested with the plans, but, sometimes they are not. This once again, if you do a search via forums and look at other peoples' models - it will give you an idea of how they did it.
Obviously then, I tackle building the model. However, I always build in a system where - if the power requirements are not up to the performance that I want for the model - I can always upgrade without any major surgery.
With reference to the plan for beginners, one of the reasons I suggested this - is it is not a great lengthy build (as in time spent in making the model) I should think a beginner spending a couple of hours per night should have the model well finished within a fortnight. It is not a great time to spend, considering the experience you are going to gain from it, which would help you build another model. Hope you understand the point I am trying to make.
aye
John e
bluebird