I would note that the underside of the particle board cuts is always clean. I suppose if you plan, you can get by with just one perfect side.
On the other hand, this has become a habit and I routinely do it.
I would also note that the "cabinet grade" 3/4" ply from Lowes has such a thin layer of veneer that it seems to want to fall off the sheet. So I would always score for that.
Also, I saw this done in a video somewhere when I first got the saw. I did not invent the process. I like to clamp the track because registration has to be perfect for the second cut to be clean. Even the tiniest shift in placement of the track will negate the scoring cut.
Also, I make the scoring cut with the saw travelling backwards and the final cut going forward. I am looking online now and others are making the scoring cut going forward the same as a regular cut. The method I use has been working for me; I don't plan on changing.
I found this Mafell information and I don't understand the "offset".
How does the scoring function work?
The Mafell scoring function on these saws limits the depth of cut AND offsets the blade .1mm from the cutting line so the user can make a scoring cut, switch off the scoring function, and then perform a normal cut without chipping. Other track saws either lack a scoring function, or they only limit the cutting depth so that the blade can still damage your workpiece. The technology behind the Mafell scoring function is a feature normally limited to €20,000+ stationary saws!