The focus on one step that many explanatory threads have comes from the fact that maps are made up from different elements, and within limits, you can mix up different ways to make these elements.

The general sequence of making a map should be quite simple. My method is something like that:
1. Decide on what I want to have on my map.
2. Decide on a style.
3. Make up the basic shape.
4. Add map elements as needed.
5. Add the additional elements: key, legend, border... that kind of things.
6. Pretty up the map.