halacha theory - What rules did Hamechaber set to himself before compiling the Shulchan Aruch?

Following Doniel's question, did R' Yosef Karo accept himself a set of fixed rules/guidelines by which he is going to compile the Shulchan Aruch?

For example, the order of Halochos, what he brings and what he omits from Tur, what authorities does he mention and what he doesn't, where he brings a Machlokes and where he Paskens.