Andy M.
Certified Pretend Chef
Thanks for clarifying! How often do you usually check the temperature with the first type of thermometer you described.
You usually have a rough idea of how long something has to cook so you check as you get lose to that time. If you're close, within 10º, check again in a few minutes. It doesn't take long.
If you are really not sure how long something will take, you'll have to check earlier and more frequently. That's part of the learning process. Make notes for next time.