I think the method of madness is a lil differant for each person.
I started with alot o soap, water, and a power washer! Then a GOOD visual inspection. Then a notebook to list missing or broken parts.(This also helps when pricing and/or swap meeting for parts.) Then come up with a plan of attack! Engine building and body repair at the same time (same space) leads to bad results on both ends! Grease and primer are not friends! I prefer
to do all mechanical then all body. My shop is not big enough to do all at the same time. Just my thoughts.