I am still learning, but I had the same questions when starting and still come across steps I am unsure about. Others can chime in. Every image is different and will present it's own set of steps required.
I try to break down the sequence to Linear and Non Linear. After proper calibration and integration your image is linear and the data is unchanged. Here is what I do for DSLR images
Linear:
Linear Fit
Background Nuetralization
Color Calibration
Deconvolution
HSV Repair
Mild noise reduction with TGVDenoise and MMT
Mild color saturation
Mild star reduction
Once I am happy with the general appearance and the image is cleaned up and calibrated, I will stretch it to Non-Linear
Non-Linear:
Masked Stretch or Histogram Stretch
Set proper Black Point with HT
Additional Color Saturation
Additional Star Reduction if needed
Final noise reduction
Curves Transformation or LHE to increase contrast
This is my general workflow and would be happy on any comments or additional steps required. Hope that helps
Bill