I wonder how often you guys use the metronome (if at all) and for what purposes exactly ?
I usually don't use the metronome until I can actually play different sections of the piece to some degree. Once I've done lots of slow practicing and analyzed the piece thoroughly, then I play through areas with the metronome slowly. Later, even when I really have a piece to a perfected level, I continue to use the metronome to keep it steady.
I also use the metronome to help memorize music. Sometimes I'll try setting it around 50-60 and play different sections slowly like that, with the music. Then, I'll try it with the metronome that slow, by memory, without the music. That helps me practice staying focused on the piece and gives me time to think about different aspects such as articulation, dynamics etc., even when playing it by memory. It also helps me find places where the memory and\or notes need work, because sometimes I don't notice if I'm playing the piece at full tempo.