Everyone has their own ideas, but the scheme described here works exceptionally well and is worth a little experimentation. You can then adjust details according to your own preferences.

Typing

Install the German keyboard mapping - see installing the German keyboard

Word and phrase inline translation

Because of the availability and functionality of add-ons it's best to use Firefox [new window]

Use the dict.cc [www.dict.cc/] dictionary [new window] because of the excellent and flexible way it shows results

To use it most effectively with German displayed on screen, use Firefox with the following add-ons

• Adblock Plus [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/adblock-plus/] [new window] suppresses adverts giving a much cleaner interface
• Dictcc translation [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/dictcc-translation/] [new window] to give direct individual word translation from German to and from English (Add-on also available for Chrome, but works better in Firefox) - see also * this important footnote
  For best inline results, set the 'Quick Translation' options as per the screenshot below and click OK
  With those settings, move the cursor over a word you wish to be translated and do Alt + click to get a small popup window with the translation

* dict.cc provide a toolbar for Firefox and other browsers which does not work nearly as well as the add-on described above. There are additional technical reasons leading to a clear recommendation not to install this toolbar.