UK HSMP & Student visa

Helo Everyone,
 
I wish to apply for HSMP. I already possess an Entry clearnance
certificate (Student) valid till 2006, but I have not yet entered into
UK (not availed it).
 
Kindly let me know the following :
 
1. What is the preferred route? Should I apply being out of the UK, or
should i avail my student visa and apply for HSMP after coming to UK.
 
2. Under my current circumstances, if i apply outside UK and having a
successful assessment of HSMP, would i be required to re-apply for
Entry Clearance again?
 
3. For the HSMP requirement no. 3 (Past earnings from your work), can
the "salary bonus" amount be accomodated with the regular income?
 
4. Do you require all original documents or notory public
attestation/certification is sufficient?
 
5. What would be the status of my student visa which is valid till
2006. Would that become void ?
 
 
An early clarification will highly be appreciated.
 
Kind Regards