It takes a lot of experimenting with different methods & products to find what works best for your individual hair. When I first started cg, it took a while to do this. Then I found "Jessicurl's" website & how she styles her hair. Using her demo, products & a HUGE key for me, a layered haircut I had the hair of my dreams!!!
Maybe her technique will work for you? I found it gave me great definition, clumping & no frizz
PLUS, like you my hair takes forever to dry & she uses a diffuser (which also helps encourage my curls)!