I always try to test fit the parts as some kits don't always fit snugly. I usually clamp or tape something like a fuselage but just hold part's together to check the fit. If I'm happy then I use tamiya ultra thin adhesive to run along the joints without pulling them apart. Leave it a couple of hours and perfect joints.

Other's may do things differently and to be fair I have only been modeling a couple of years but it works for me.Pantherman