Hi Brydo
Been doing my own “repairs” for many many years, and the rule of thumb is:-
If you can catch your finger nail in the scratch it needs paint.
If you CANNOT it will generally take polishing to remove.
Always use the least aggressive methos (polish/compound) and do not do it often.
The majority of light body work damage is inflicted at car washes and poor wash routine.
Remember one thing if a scratch or damage is small, wait till near the change over date to get it fixed.
David