Project advice - taking control of our backyard

Current status:

The backyard is relatively small ~50'x20’ and exclusively weeds that vary in size (2-4 feet high). The weeds are a mixture of grasses and stalks. There is a small slope that drops ~1-2’ over the 20’ depth of the backyard, and the slope is not constant (there are big dips and it is easy to hurt an ankle). There are no sprinklers, utilities, or anything to avoid in the yard. There are some nearby trees so there may be roots. The ground is soft on the surface, with clay once you get ~6" deep

Goals:

I’d like a low/no maintenance area for now that could be enhanced in the future. Not looking for any amenities at this time.

Current Plan:

I’m looking for feedback and suggestions since I don’t have much experience on this type of project, but my current plan is to go rent a big tiller and go to town on the yard (start with a low depth, then make a couple passes each time going deeper). Once the soil is soft, make it a smoother slop using a rake. Then spread a plastic weed barrier and cover the whole thing with a bunch of wood chips to make a low maintenance backyard.

Is this a reasonable plan (i.e., will this work)? Are there other things I should consider doing or better ways to do it? Is there anything else I should be watching out for or planning for before tackling this? Thanks in advance for the help.

submitted by /u/1dollarbob
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