Hi,
You can be flying either manually or with the AP on. It is exactly like in other airplanes. And like in other airplanes, before inserting the autopilot you must have a well trimmed airplane, like in case of an engine failure during takeoff. Just as in a twin cessna you keep control of the airplane, give correct trim input and then insert the autopilot which will continue to do your job, but it is not your substitute.
Bye