The word 计划 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a step in a logical mental process. The first character, 计 (jì), carries the core meaning of "calculating" or "reckoning", representing the initial phase of assessment and deliberation. It is then paired with 划 (huà), which means "to delineate" or "to mark out", evoking the image of drawing lines or a blueprint. Together, they sequentially depict the act of first calculating or devising a strategy (计) and then formally mapping or outlining it into a structured proposal or project (划), forming the complete concept of a "plan".