Code Complete: A Practical Handbook of Software Construction, Second Edition, Steve McConnell, 2004 (Microsoft Press) - This comprehensive guide provides practical advice on all aspects of software construction, with early chapters dedicated to understanding the problem and high-quality design, which are key to effective planning.
Introduction to Computer Science and Programming in Python, Ana Bell, Eric Grimson, and John Guttag, 2016MIT OpenCourseWare (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) - A foundational course that introduces computational problem-solving, Python programming, and essential techniques for structuring programs and breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps.
The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey To Mastery, 20th Anniversary Edition, David Thomas, Andrew Hunt, 2019 (Addison-Wesley Professional) - This influential book offers timeless advice on software development, emphasizing practical approaches to problem-solving, design, and continuous improvement, which are beneficial for planning projects of any size.