It seems common in physics papers & literature to simply point someone to a paper for a quite particular result in it, without giving a more specific citation. This often forces a reader to sift through 30 or more pages of material to find what they are looking for, leading to a waste of time for the reader.
For example, if you're referring to Theorem 17 or Eq. (134) in a paper, then cite it alongside the paper citation. This helps to speed up the job of the reader of your paper.
@markwilde I think I look at writing proofs and theorems more like teaching than purely substantiation of facts.
From that perspective, it makes sense to carefully yet concisely walk through the steps of a process while making clear and precise citations within and outside of the document.
I think I see this approach more often from experienced authors working in math and theory. Other authors may not be mature enough to craft an argument well or may be working in areas where such precise citations make less sense.
