[MetalMan]

Originally Posted by BrianG

Although, the each pair of parallel cells in MM's right pic would not have the different voltages as shown.

I too think it's best to make your P groups first, and then put those in series. Plus, balancing as a whole is MUCH easier.

Exactly, just showing how any out-of-balanced cells are averaged out by the cell they are paired with.

And yes, balancing is a hell of a lot more simple.