I don't think there's any one way of doing a thing and when humans are concerned, what works for one may not for another. I think, with lists, having it on paper clarifies it and makes the thing more real. That in turn keeps it front of mind, maybe prompting some of the actions required to move one closer to it. That's the theory anyway.
Maybe try it out sometime when you're in the right headspace and see how it goes. It may work or may not.
I will once my heads clearee. I do like the feeling of satisfaction when i tick something off.
That's the good part for me also, besides achieving the thing in the first place...Ticking it off and the satisfaction I get from it. I don't put everything on a list but it works for me mostly and so I do it. Good luck with it if you decide to do it.
Thank you :)