I flew R/C in the years 1977 - 1987. I am now returning after a long time away. In that time period the transmitters were not nearly as advanced as they are today. The deflections were not critical for me because I flew a shoulder wing trainer for a long time. For your plane I would set the control throw to somewhere in the middle. Unlike yesteryear today's transmitters allow you to program in the deflections you desire. As someone mentioned the deflections become more critical as you advance in aerodynamic design. The deflections can be dialed-in using the transmitter programming. Getting your plane trimmed to fly straight and dealing with the wind and the sun will be your major concerns. Now days I have been using a simulator to get me back up to speed. Below is a simulator video showing me adjusting the deflections. As it turns out... when I am flying a Yak or something stunt worthy.... I am very particular about the deflections because it has a significant effect on performance.