5k splits

I start out a bit fast. I usually fade throughout the race and then pick it back up the last 400-800m. First mile is usually 20 seconds faster than the other 2. Last 2 miles usually end up about the same pace due to the finishing kick. Probably not ideal but that is my personal preference.

I always like starting at about my Vo2max pace and just seeing how long I could hold it. Usually for the first mile and then fade to threshold and hold it there

Depends on your splits. IMO you shouldn't be going faster in the latter half of your race. You can go a tiny bit faster in the beginning and possibly maintain towards the end or not die off as much as you're afraid of. You need to know your body and where to push/hold back. How you train is how you race.

So it sounds like there is no consensus best way to do it?

I mean the best way is what ever works best for you. If you’re used to starting out faster than that’s what will work out best for you. Your job is just to make it something manageable.

For example: the xc team I coach has a wide range of what the kids like to do. Some kids take out faster some take out a little slower and gradually get faster. If I were to tell them all they have to negative split my team would suck. I try to give each individual a race plan that works for them and structure training so no matter what race scenario they find themselves in they feel confident to make the moves needed. Anyone that says you have to run one way or another has no idea what they’re talking about.

ETA: specifically speaking. Generally speaking you don’t want your start to be so hard you die or your finish to be so slow you take yourself out of it but that’s what I mean by the start being manageable.