They're definitely best for mixed and thin ice conditions because you can place the single front point precisely. On fat ice, double front points are more stable, and in warm or soft ice they may hold when mono points shear through the slush. Keep all the points sharp. A simple mill-bastard file will get them like shark's teeth. It will be hard to trust your crampons the first few times you get on the ice, especially if conditions are cold and brittle.
Many beginners kick too many times for each foot placement.
The idea is to set the foot quickly, then transfer weight to it. Make sure it's secure, though. Moving on bad foot or tool placements has no future. Pure French technique is restful on the calves, but on steeper waterfall ice it's awkward and insecure. You should, however, still flat foot on small or slopey ledges to rest.