didn't even notice you typed that (doh)...the gpu you can't put it in the mobo before (it wont stay in the same spot and you will end up damaging it) the ram it does not matter...i put it in before because it is a bit easier IMO.
^not if he puts his hand under the board when he is pushing the ram in the dimm. But it does not really matter, before....after....pretty much the same thing.