Beginner questions

[wanton slate]

Hello i'm a beginner who is self-learning using Pam Wedgwood books and the internet. I have two questions:

1. With regards to dynamics is this information correct? Like if I want to apply softness, loudness and medium is this a trick I should use or is it better to just use finger strength (alone) without the positioning advice shown in these videos when controlling dynamics?
   Video: https://youtu.be/nfEEibbVkMc?si=tyyb3m5Op7fheIYD
2. How should I position (rest position) my hand if both the left-hand and right-hand is on the Middle C (labeled finger 1 left and right hands). I asked ChatGTPT and got told for situations like this the right hand usually goes upward (above the key, narrow area) and the left hand goes downward (below, near the edge of the key), is this a rule or does it not matter which goes upward or downward? The image is clearly edited because it's an example. Check thumbnail/image below

[stuck ruin]

Question 1 answer: finger strength can help emphisise certainly but the wrist needs to be considered too to help keep it flow nicely while reducing the strain you put on your fingers

[stuck ruin]

well in this exercise the first middle c is in the bass clef (the bottom one) which you should play with your left finger as indicated however the c after it is in the treble clef (the top one) and is not played with the c from the bass clef, indicating you can take off your left hand and replace it with your thumb from the right

hopefully i didnt overcomplicate that

but to dumb it down

you play with your left hand thumb first

relase your left hand

then use your right hand thumb

hope this helps!