Yes, parallel to the shank of the hook and just to provide a small area for the flank feather stems to ride against as they are tied in. By keeping them in place it will keep them from rolling, which is the demon you need to look out for.

If you start tying Rangely style streamers you may want to use the tiny clump between the wings trick there, too...

As the techniques kick in you will probably want to drop some of them and you may prefer to tie them in one at a time.

Good luck