Yep, I use a skimming blade instead of a squeegee and it works well (haven't tried the squeegee approach, yet). Would be interested if you have tried a skimming blade and then moved to the squeegee.

The one I use is the same as this one: https://www.amazon.com/Fafeicy-40x14-5x4-5cm-Smoothing-Stainless-Plastering/dp/B09NSBN3LS

I tend to use pancake batter consistency (probably the same as your yogurt consistency) with the goal of once the coat gets thin enough, it resists the skim blade more so it essentially auto-levels.

Sounds like a lot, but what I actually do is:

1. setting compound (which I assume is the hot mud) with fiber tape for joints and over screws
2. 2nd coat of setting compound over taped joints
3. quick sand (either hand or machine)
4. skim coat using roller technique
5. quick sand using machine (literally slow walking speed)
6. touch-up any issues
7. prime and paint

It is amazingly fast compared with trying to do 3rd and 4th feather coats and a high-build primer.

Skim coat. Always seemed to be mentioned as a pro step that is unobtainable for DIYers, but I tried it recently and it is actually really easy to get 99% perfect with the first coat, do a sand, and then do one last touch-up pass and a quick hand sand.

Very pleased with the finished product for a change.