Since you still are not certain of what you want to do, the big thing is eliminating the weeds. Pulling by the roots is a big part of the chore, but more will come back (it is one of nature's fun things).

Many weeds go to seed real quick and will spread their seeds that you might not see for several years. Chemicals, burning, smothering: any or all might not get them all. Once you till, some seeds that were deeper will be brought up and they will haunt you. Welcome to gardening!

Most practical option is that newspapers and cardboard are great for eliminating light and maybe creating lots of heat this time of year. Spread either and then toss something on top to keep them from going away. A light layer of mulch or a little soil, whichever you have handy.

In the spring, after you have decided what to do with that space, the soil should have been loosened naturally and ready for whatever you have decided. After you plant, then you should put down your permanent mulch.

Jim

There's some info about an almost identical situation here. Do these inputs help you feel like you know what you can do about it?