I only ever use the paddles for a bit of engine braking downhill.
The gearlever is good for forcing the car into a higher gear than it wants when you are trying to achieve 50 mpg.
Other than that the internal brainbox of the DSG is so much better than me at selecting the right gear.
Usually in D, except in town when there are youngsters in Saxos buzzing around, then S works a treat.