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Hello @SciencePete , pretty much everything with the guitar is personal preference. But there are still things that are more common and things that are more effective. Many good players rest their pinky and/or the ring. However, most players use the forearm where it comes in contact with the guitar as their reference point. Some also use the heel of their hand. Classical players use the strings themselves where their fingers rest on the strings they are assigned to. We do need some kind of “anchor”, but we don’t need the pinky.
I am trying to break myself of the pinky because I was too unconcerned but now find myself putting too much pressure on it. I think the difference is that I can play finger style for so much longer now. I can play without my pinky, but it frequently goes back without my thinking about it. Consequently, I’d suggest, from my personal experience, to try not to use it. That way, even if you do end up using it as it just feels natural, at least it will be light.
I have noticed guitar players whose pinky touches the guitar off and on, almost like it has a life of it’s own. If the pinky doesn’t stay there, then the pressure won’t build up.
I hope this helps.
MG 😀