If I put in unused rrsp contributions, is that saying that I wish to use these contributions, or is it merely confirming that I have an amount to carry forward?

The latter.  You are required to include your RRSP contributions made in the first 60 days of 2018 on your 2017 return.  The software will then ask you how much of your contributions you wish to claim for your 2017 return and the difference will then automatically be carried forward to next year.