I got used to my gearing after about a week of riding. Of course I ride a double so I have less configurations than you.

I don't even look at what combinations I use anymore. I can "feel" what gear I'm in and I know when I'm going to cross the chain. The angle you are talking about is crossing the chain. From what I know it puts tension on the chain and causes it to break faster. Something about uneven wear and torque on the chain. I forgot the combinations that you aren't supposed to use to avoid crossing the chain.

Pretty much the best advice I could give is just to go and ride with it. Eventually you get used to it and you don't even look down when you shift.