My pre-plan is simple, I don't build June-August due to my work travel schedule so during those off months I plan all my builds and get all needed supplies and do all my research. I have did it this for the past 10 years or so and it works out great as I don't get burned out and as my better half travels with me during those months she is usually tired of dealing with me for months I get all the build time I can handle the rest of the year!