Flyingpom,
you will be fine
Ken is an awesome guy..
If you see cloud at planned level enroute (such as i did in my PPL) descend below (as long as you CAN maintain 1000ft clearance above builtup areas, 500ft above non builtup per AIPs- that is massively important).
If its over mountainous terrain and you can't consider a diversion- dont just do random 'doglegs as you say' but rather plan via a medium sized township ideally if possible.
On judging cloud distance etc how long is a piece of string? It's a process which is just helped by experience but you will well notice if you are getting anywhere near cloud- if its few then you will have no issues.
DO not go vfr on top under any circumstances in a test. May be good for overseas tests but I think its downright dangerous on a VFR PPL, CPL test in Australia. What if you cant find a gap ?
Good luck and remember the ato wants to pass you
