Yes that's fine. Generally when describing the layout you describe from the panel to the first outlet/switch but you described it backwards. No issues with your layout though

You can always use larger gauge wire. 14 is minimum gauge for 15A breaker and 12 is minimum for 20A breaker.

The size you use is based on the breaker size. That being said, lights use so little power and 14 gauge is so much cheaper and easier to work with that most ppl put them on a 15A circuit. If the lights are separate from outlets, then in the event you trip a breaker due to high loads on the outlets, you still have lights in the room to see what you're doing.

As for your other wiring question(s) what do you mean by switch loop? That is terminology for when you run power to light fixture, then to the switch. Nowadays it's generally better (and code in most/all areas) to run power to light switch first, then to the fixtures. That allows neutral to be present at the switch in case of a smart switch

For routing I would just wire from the nearest outlet/switch to the next outlet/switch. Outlets you can continue on by wiring directly to the outlet itself. Note if you do this in a 20A circuit you need to use 20A outlets. If you pigtail before connecting to the switch then 15A outlets are fine to use even on 20A circuits. Then on switches you should always pigtail before connecting to the switch otherwise everything beyond it in the circuit will be switched power.

EDIT: crossed out a section. I think all 15A UL certified outlets are rated for 20A pass through, so they're fine to use