How do you seal your small block oil pan?

I am unsure of how to go about sealing my oil pan for my 416 build. The engine is based off a 340 block so I must use the 4 piece gasket set. I have a Kevko oil pan and am using Superformance gaskets/end seals.

So what is the correct method for ensuring a leak free pan with the set up? I have read countless times to 'just use some silicone in the corners'. Where exactly are we talking about? How does it get applied, smeared or gooped on? What kind? How much?

The stupid end seals re a little bit of a pain. I was able to pull the nubs through the holes in the sides but they don't really sit flat where the seal meets the block and timing cover.

So let's say I get them in there OK, then proceed with cinching the pan down. How/when is the silicone applied?

I tried to do this once already and made a mess. Again, I hate silicone but I know I need to use it.

Here's some pics of where I have questions. First is of the front under the timing cover. I believe that the seal should flatten out when the cover is on and the bolts are tight. Do I need silicone here though? The next pic is of the rear main cap. Where/how/how much/what type of silicone do you apply here? When does it get applied? Thanks for any input.