I just have two things to add.
There are two basic types of trimmers. One type looks like small scissors except with a small curved notch in the
blades.
The other is a guillotine type similar to the ones used on larger dogs.
Using the scissor type gives you much more control and exerts less pressure than the other type. I originally had the other type and when I switched to the small scissor type it was so amazingly easier.
To avoid cutting into the quick, never cut further than the apex of the curve. If you run the scissor blade along the nail, you can feel it even if you can’t see it. This is especially important for cats with dark feet and nails.
Since I switched nail clipper types, I have never once needed a styptic pencil.
I just do my cats nails with me in cross-legged sitting position and kitty on it’s back. I cover up the back feet with a towel to counteract any kicking but my current cat is fine without it.