I feel like I`d be a little dishonest to put up a weight loss plan. I`ve always been the skinny guy who wanted to be bigger and had to learn to be content with being the smaller guy in the gym. Still, I was thinking of the benefits of just having a thread for the principals of weight-loss, fitness, a healthy balanced diet, etc. that all (especially those better versed in other areas than I) could amass and trade information of what works, what doesn`t, or where to find what works, as well as perhaps a little why, how, and whatever else seems worthwhile.
As far as maximizing effort, I`d say the principles of any given plan are pretty universal for men and/or women, and more specific to the goal, be it weight loss or muscle growth, as any aesthetic regimen usually falls into one or the other. What is healthy could be something altogether different, as well as training for a specific function or event or pastime.
A good plan always come down to the goal. It should be SMART (Simple, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-oriented, as the acronym goes... If I recall, though I always found A and R a little redundant) and usually, specific knowledge will only help. There are still droves of controversies in the fitness industry, but most standard advice has solid scientific evidence to back it up as far as what is beneficial, why, how, etc. though opinions will differ.
I`ll ramble soon, if I`m not already, which is another reason I think specific questions are easier to deal with, as per experience, and proven clinical successes. I`ll post my goals and plans accordingly, but feel they should be mine.
Cheers!