How do you approach tasks/activities/problems/etc without becoming overwhelmed?

[sploogal]

 In highschool I used to transcribe the melodies of songs from things like Harry Potter or The Lord Of The Rings and other soundtracks when I couldn't find the sheet-music to play.  I only used to do the melodies though and then I'd usually just play them on the flute.  I was always impressed that my brother was able to listen to the Rugrats theme

Comments

[nigrescere]

I suppose I do something similar when I'm writing poetry. I tend to get all the ideas down and some great lines, attempt to fill in the gaps and then when I'm rewriting it I go through every little thing step by step. Title, any rhyme scheme, punctuation, rhythm, choice of words, word order, stanza length/oraganisation, the list goes on and on.
If you find it works for you then go for it! I think half the battle of study is actually finding what works for you.