Describes methodical approach used in awfully messy attic (10)

I believe the answer is:

systematic

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'describes methodical approach used' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'awfully messy attic' is the wordplay.
'awfully' is an anagram indicator.
'messy'+'attic'='messyattic'
'messyattic' is an anagram of 'SYSTEMATIC'.

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for systematic that I've seen before include "Structured" , "intentional" , "Orderly" , "organised" , "Done methodically" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.