Seems to be the standard way where I am as well, BUT.......would it not make more sense to do max assumed thrust first?
I am really no expert.. but does it matter how (de-rate or assumed) we reduce the take-off thrust? Any reduction in N1 should save the hot parts, if that's using a de-rate or assumed should be no different?
Regarding VMCG issues I am not sure what to answer. I don't have the RTOW charts here but would let's say a 26K assumed to 55 deg produced the same speeds as a full 22K? (Assuming they give the same RTOW)