Mac Pro 2013 Borked last time

Hi.
I was building an Xcode project and to get it on my Ipad it required my OS to go up from Monterey. Stupidly in excitement building my first Ipad app I went ahead - No Backup ( yes yes lol ) and installed OLPC. I got to the Sequoia screen and thought coolio! Then I though should I install Root Patches - yes it will complete the install - and without a moment's notice they installed and I BORKED my mac completely! I couldn't even boot Linux from an external USB. I had to do Internet Recovery.

What a headache. Luckily I was able to get my data off but it was a right faff.
So I am back to my original Mac Pro 2013 with Monterey.
I am thinking should I try this again / try Sonoma / try it but not with Root patches .

Any advice is appreciated. I certainly can't face going through that whole thing again but I want my Ipad app on my Ipad! Advice is greatfully received.