How to study fusion without getting lost

Start by separating the physics question from the engineering question. Physics asks whether the plasma can produce more energy than it loses. Engineering asks whether a complete plant can operate repeatedly, safely, affordably, and with maintainable hardware.

When you read a new milestone, ask four questions: What fuel was used? Was the energy measured at the plasma, target, device, or wall-plug level? How long did the pulse last? What system still needs to be built around it?