If you prefer to watch videos instead of reading the guide, feel free to do so. There is a playlist that covers an entire platinum playthrough on my YouTube channel. If you'd like and subscribe, it would mean a lot to this channel!
The steps of this guide can be done in any order. I usually like to leave Career Modes for the end of my playthroughs in racing games, but you can start there if you like to.
As soon as you unlock them, keep an eye on Trainings, Coach Quests & Journal Challenges. Efficiently clearing all of these 3 determines how long our way to the platinum is going to be. Everything can be done on the easiest difficulty.