Another old fart reply. If you want to race fast--here's the secret...get used to running fast. There's no shortcuts. You get out what you put in. Very simple really.

This is a good thing that you are interested in finding out how others train, what their logs look like. Because it means you have a willingness to learn and increase your knowledge of race specific training for your racing distance.

I thought instead of just showing you a training program for a 5k I'd try to draw a picture of an effective way of aerobic conditioning.

First - Start at a slow pace with low mileage/Build mileage by 5-10% per week until you have a good aerobic base
Second -
Third - Slowly add in speed, tempo, hills, long run, technique drills, weight training or any combonation
Fourth - Prepare for race by decreasing mileage and increasing run pace to some above and some below race pace
Fifth - 1-2 weeks before race, taper - step down mileage but keep pace close to race pace

Another thing to consider.

Level 1 - Develop Aerobic base (build build build) your aerobic conditioning will support all other training throughout your training
Level 2 - Maintain Aerobic base (less mileage), Long Runs
Level 3 - Tempo (approx. 80% of Max Heart Rate)
Level 4 - Speed, Hills (Above 100% of VO2max = Anaerobic)
Level 5 - Race Pace (Above 80% of Max Heart Rate)