7-step framework: (1) Define specific target outcome. (2) Audit what you already know. (3) Research 15–20 job postings — top skills by frequency are your curriculum. (4) Sequence with foundations first. (5) Select one resource per skill. (6) Set time estimates and a completion date with buffer. (7) Build checkpoints every 4–6 weeks. Building a personal learning curriculum takes 2–4 hours upfront and saves dozens of misdirected hours over the months that follow.