How much of my paycheck would I ideally spend on ...

my advice would be to find a family member or close friend that you trust and hand over your paycheck. then when your bills come in, let them give you the money to pay them off -and pay them off- so you do not have the money laying around ready to spend. also, one of the greatest saving strategies is to pay yourself first. by that, i mean to put 10% of your paycheck in a savings vehicle, such as mutual funds. the key to this is, have the money, the 10%, taken off before you recieve your paycheck, the company you work for might be able to help, and if not go to your bank. the best book on how to aviod debt and save money, also a good read, not dry and boring, is The Wealthy Barber. this book has helped me immensely in my saving money and learning of my options

Well, the goal is to have your income not exceed your outgoing.

I really have no idea what your debt level is, but if can't be paid back in less than 3 years (excluding a mortgage) you better think of getting more money somehow or getting rid of some expensive habits.

I also have to assume you are single, and with no dependents

Typically people pay themselves first (at min 10%) that is for investing and rainy days

Shelter with utilities (anywhere from a 25-65% of your paycheque)

Food (one person is about $40 a week)

Entertainment ($25)

Everything else is up for grabs.  Clothing (you can choose to buy new, or go to value village), you may or may not need a car, etc.

The bigger part is to figure out what you have right now and work on it.  If you can cut bank fees, do it.  Switch to an all cash system, etc.

Here is a great book to get you in the mindset.  It is the price of $0.

Best of luck.