What I do is during the installation of programs, typically, you get to a screen that shows where the program will install. I point that to the hdd instead of the ssd drive. That's all. 

I also put all my data/media/backup/whatever on the hdd. This way I keep the ssd "lean" and clean for the most part. 

I bought an Alienware Laptop with a 256GB SSD drive and 1 TB HDD.   1. I thought when you were installing software that you would be give the choice to install in the C (SSD) or D (HDD ) drive.   2. Windows is on C (SSD)   3. and all programs are getting installed there and what I thought might be a relatively large SSD is having less and less space.   4. Programs are also defaulting saves to C drive (but in most cases this can be sent to the D Drive).

1. Almost always the installer gives you a choice. You might have to click "Custom Install" button. However, 256gb is more than enough for Windows AND all your Programs. It's better to install all your programs to C: SSD (they don't take-up much space).

2. Right

3. Windows and main programs on SSD C:

Large games and Data files on D:

create

D:\Games

and

D:\Storage\Documents
D:\Storage\Media\Video

... like that

4. So, inside video program settings, set it to use a folder on D: for work-files and final saves.

I'm just confused as to how Dell would mess up this step since the OS image should be pre-loaded before the HDD and SSD are even installed..

What you want to do is remap the user directories to the HDD and then create junctions to the original locations (in case any third party programs automatically save to the default directions). See here:

http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/hardware-upgrades-for-your-system/upgrading-to-a-solid-state-drive/solid-state-drive-and-hard-drive-configuration/

Software wise, its best to install all other software on the SSD unless you are installing large games.