I agree, it is so easy to get distracted, try the next shiny thing and then up with complete information overload. Choose something you like, stick to it and then persevere until you make money with it.
I just want to tell the newbies, some ways do not work such as click the ads and offers or some emails. I still do not know why so many people are clicking ads. You can not make some money from doing that. It is better to start your own business online. You do not have to invest a lot. If you do not have any idea of IM, it really does not matter. All of the IMers are from newbies. What you should do is getting enough info, choosing a way and stick on it.
WOW ..... great job but you forget PTC and PTR sites. Some are still paying good. intoffer, jillsclickcorner, getpaidmail, donkeymails.com
I think what you tell it more in theory. Standard theory of earning money on the internet. But in practice, it is not easy.