I agree with consistency.
If you use time out, use it every time. Same routine. Broken record talking etc. Then they know the drill.
I know it's a pain. Sometimes my SO would do the "I'm going to count to 3" thing...which I hated.
He just delayed the inevitable. He'd go so slow, which the kids knew he would & by the time he said 2 I'd jump in & say 3! & follow thru with what he said.

I think consistency gets boring for the kids & it helps them move on.