What is the proper way to empty the gas tank and check a external fuel pump?

[Stang_ROTY]

I really need to fiugre out if my fuel pump is pushing fuel correctly. Should I completely empty my fuel tank, check for pickup tube clogging, and replace the pickup screen. Can I take the Inlet fuel line (from the pickup)and stick it into a bucket with some fuel in it to check for the sucking of fuel, and run the line out of the filter (that goes to the rails) in a bucket. Is that a good idea?? At the same time while the tank is out should I empty the tank since the car was sitting for such a long time?? Thanks