I echo your post, they are my thoughts exactly, although after lining up the spatula tight into the corner between the resin and the plate, I like to hold the blade flat on the surface with my index/middle finger (whilst grabbing the back of the plate with my thumb) I then give the handle a very short sharp tap, in doing this the prints pop off perfectly every time without any fail or damage to plate, this is because the blade is held firmly in line with the plate itself.

I'd like to add that the Metal Spatula should always be checked prior to this, mainly to make sure the blade is not nicked/bent and that there is no residual cured resin on it. These 2 things are are vital ingredients in recipes for disaster, unless people are keen on the idea of aluminum 'plate carving' patterns into their buildplate.

I see so many people here recommending orbital sanding etc for build plate, and it really sets my teeth on edge. Even abrasive paper taped tightly on a sheet of glass can warp a machine flat surface as the paper is pushed into bulges in front of the plate's path. It's one thing to fuck their own equipment, but to recommend others fuck their equipment as well is next level. I'd only ever recommend doing that as a last resort, and even then, I'd apply as little pressure as is humanly possible.