Tom Lee- "I can not think of any application for a nail in layout construction."
I like to use a finishing nail to secure the pivot end of the wooden rule I use as a compass to lay out curves. That's just about it, except as you mentioned, to temporarily secure pieces that are being glued. There are so many great screws available today. They make nails just about obsolete. Deck screws are more resistant to breaking than drywall screws.