Yes, alternating the pattern does make it easier to see if you are removing the last stria pattern. You should be removing the previous grit stria with each stone, especially 1k and sub 1k stria.

You do not have to hone the complete cycle in one direction, just alternate the final laps, 10 or so, to lay down a different pattern. If you see deep stria still, do some more laps.

Heel forward stroke gets the whole blade on the stone and can get a heel honed without interference of the stabilizer, usually with an X stroke the heel come off the stone in the first ½ inch of lateral travel, the toe stays on the stone the whole stroke.

A heel forward X stroke keeps the heel on the stone at least half way through the stroke.