FAST CAULKING: A common mistake is to cut off too much of the caulk tube tip, leaving a hole that is way too big for most interior work.  Instead keep the hole tiny...maybe 1/16",  so that you will have just enough caulk for small to medium sized cracks.  Use a second pass or have a second tube with a larger hole handy for the wider cracks. A quick swipe with a wet fingertip and you'll be paint ready!