In my index, I track: name, status (active, paused, inactive), description, goal and a link to the archive doc if it exist.

My archive doc looks like this (I generally delete any sections that aren't relevant to keep these easy to create):

  # <TITLE>
  ### *Handoff to Future Me: <project name>*
  ### *Snapshot Date*: <date>
  ---
  ### *Project Summary*
  - *Objective*: Briefly state what you're trying to achieve.
  - *Motivation*: What drove you to start this project?
  - *Current State*: Is it in the ideation phase, research phase, or have you already built something?
  ---
  ### *Essential Context*
  - *Related Projects or Dependencies*: Are there any other projects or tasks that are connected to this one?
  - *Technical Specs*: For example, in your lamp project, what type of metal, what voltage for the lamp, etc.
  - *Non-Standard Tools & Environment*: Any unique or specific tools you're using. For example, a specific code IDE or a special type of screwdriver.
  ---
  ### *Progress and Milestones*
  - *Last Completed Milestone*: What was the last significant thing you accomplished?
  - *Next Steps*: Like you said, for your lamp: research, clean metal, buff, etc.
  - *Stumbling Blocks*: Any challenges you foresee or have encountered?
  - *Any Experiments/Tests Conducted*: Brief on what you've tried and the outcomes.
  ---
  ### *Resources*
  - *Important Files & Locations*: Where are the project assets or codebase stored?
  - *Reference Material*: Links to guides, tutorials, or papers that are crucial.
  - *Key Contacts*: Who can you consult about this? Even if it's an online community.
  ---
  ### *Handoff Summary*
  - *Why Stopping*: Why are you pausing this project?
  ---
  ### *Notes to Future Me*
  - Personal notes, reminders, or advice to your future self about the project.