Can you use clear coat for protection during WIP?

Yes you can I'll get all the painting for example I am now working on a Hasawaga MKIB Typhoon i'm doing the upper camo right. When that is done I'll do the single color underside, when all paint is dry I'll give the whole model a good coat of high gloss. Then I'll finish the model it's already for decals to go on,do the final finish and done.     ACESES5                                      

I would think that it would start to fill in the detail (if there was any).

Once mine get to partially painted stage I set them on an old, soft towel to keep the scratches minimal.

I try using a white cotton glove for handling. You can find them at photo shops and come 2 to 4 a pack for a couple of bucks. Using these gloves will greatly reduce any handling marks, fingerprints, etc.

I have clearcoated window and canopy areas to prevent paint bleed under the edge of masking tape. I also find it protects the tape if it is going to be there awhile.  Otherwise I find a lot of handling tends to snag edges of tape (sanding, especially).