People talk about using pauses and lower reps to take a break when you just can't bring much more.

How do you choose which one? Is it go lower reps if you're maxed out and can't do much more and use pause when you just need a breather?

This is called "over thinking" waayyyyyyyy to much. You are going to drive yourself crazy over details that don't really matter.

If you think by taking a 2 or 3 second pause will help you get 1,2,3 or more reps then pause and get in a few more reps. Do what you can do and don't over think.

Well I appreciate the honesty. I am definitely amped up thinking about starting tomorrow. Thanks

i would pause in between exercises, to catch your breath if needed, but not in the middle of one to pound out an extra rep or 2.