Count hand first or running count?

OK, you're in the middle of the table (3rd spot). Everyone is dealt to. You have your running count because you scanned the table and counted in pairs. The running count is now +10. 1st base gets hit with a 6. +11 count now. He stands. 2nd spot guy stands as well. Count is still +11.

Now it's your turn. You have a 7 against a dealer 8. You signal to hit. As the card comes from the shoe you see it is a 5. Now I know this may sound like a trivial question, but what do you usually do first.

Do you look at the five and figure out your running count first and then your hand? Or do you figure out your hand total first and then your running count? Or do you not worry about the count at all until you are finished hitting/busting your hand in full? Just wondering as trying to add a running count and a hand count is making my brain a little wacky for those few seconds. Thanks.

Everyone is different and you will just naturally find a method that feels comfortable to you. I add the five to my 7 and then I add the +1 to the count. And then use the same sequence as I get more cards. However, in this case, I know it will be a ten for a bust (only kidding). Once you get comfortable, and I can't guess when that will be for you (nor remember how long it took for me, although I know it wasn't too long), all of this will be become second nature and you will be able to do it in your sleep. Believe me, the counting is not hard at all...it's doing it without getting caught as your betting levels increase.

thing first, then complete the next task. I have been focused on the count before and then realized I have to signal a decision. Thus, I have stalled and then maybe given an ambiguous signal or gotten paranoid that others could tell I was focused on counting. I was hit once when I wanted to double. I was reaching in my pocket for more cash and when I looked up I already had another card. I think you need to be clear and decisive.

So, make your play decision and signal the dealer. Make the next decision and signal the dealer etc.. If you bust get the hand count before it's scooped up - (you may find it easier to count several cards at once then to track single repetitive cards as dealt). If you draw to 21 fist pump the air or high five the other players and then resume counting....

Whatever you do, get a routine and stick to it. When you play emptier tables, it's much easier to do the whole routine.

but I'd keep the running count straight first and piss everyone off when I take my time to calculate my hand.
Then again, Im a girl. It's easier to get away with it I guess.