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Step one: define the finished result
Start by writing one sentence describing what done looks like, with a date if one exists. In the home office example, that might be a painted room with a built-in desk, working lighting and tidy cables by the end of next month. Then list everything that must be true for that sentence to hold. Do not sort yet; simply collect. Keep each line a noun or outcome, such as paint selected, desk installed or wiring checked. This gives you the shell of the project before you begin cracking it into pieces that a person can act on.
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Step two: split outcomes into doable tasks
Take each outcome and turn it into actions that fit in a single sitting, ideally under two hours. Paint selected becomes compare three samples, test them on the wall and buy the chosen color. Desk installed becomes measure the wall, order materials and assemble the frame. If a task still feels heavy, ask what the first physical action is and write that instead. Add an owner and a rough time estimate to each. Tasks that mention waiting, such as delivery or drying, should be marked so they can start early and run in the background.
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Step three: rank by dependency and impact
Now order the list using two questions: what blocks other work, and what moves the finish line most? In the renovation, wiring must happen before painting, and painting before furniture, so those rise to the top regardless of how appealing the other jobs are. Mark long-lead items like ordering the desk as early starters. Then pick a short list of three tasks for the next session and leave the rest visible but quiet. Review weekly, reopening any task that grew, so the plan stays honest and the next action is always obvious.