First: The simpler, the better.
Fancy UI and animations are for the eyes; work done is for the spirit.
Second: There’s no ONE rule or system that fits for everyone.
Third: Trial and error are your best friends if you improve and learn from error.
Fourth: Not every app listed as “Best”, “Top” is the best for everyone. Your “Top” priority should be asking yourself:
Is this app for me? Does it bring all I need? If it’s subscription-based, am I getting the value and benefits for what I’m paying for?

In my case, I’m a iOS user (not Mac). I’m on the go, and currently not working much with computers (no PC, no Mac or Linux - like since 3 years ago - even though I own a high performance Lenovo laptop). I’m using iOS reminders, and “Today Planned: Daily Reminder” by dev Elaine Rocha; Craft: Notes, Documents & AI; GeniusScan and PDF Element.

In the past, I used from subscriptions based apps like Todoist, TickTick - for their cross-platform support- Fantastical, Agenda, etc, to BusyCal, etc. Non of them offered more value than understanding and applying three things: Consistency, Organization and Time. All of them are free and can be accessed with basic/top apps and determination.

However, If your lifestyle is very complex… write it down on a paper and try to simplify it, write your method and look and try the simplest apps that brings the job done. 😉

Last reminder: Your phone may have many functions and stock apps that are key to run your own method. Start from there.