Unless you have been assigned a lower altitude by ATC, try setting up
your pattern so you arrive 1500 feet above field elevation when abeam
the approach end of the runway.
If you are on speed (80kts for the C182), you can reduce power to idle
and bring in 30 degrees flaps. This will position you for a constant
rate, 180 degree turn to the runway. Slowing to 75 kts, 90 degrees
through the turn (base) and 70 kts, wings level, final. Bring in the
last 10 degrees of flaps and touch down with the airspeed decaying
through 55 kts.

Cherokee Six and the Arrow, bring in two notches of flaps (25 degrees),
airspeed 90 kts abeam the approach end of the runway, reduce power to
idle. Slow to 85kts at the 90 degree point. Roll level at 80 kts on
final. Bring in the last notch of flaps (40 degrees), slowing to 70 over
the threshhold.

If you fly "airline" (ie- wide) patterns, you will have to carry some
power to make the runway.
Wind dictates how wide and how far to extend the downwind.
Get used to flying a steep approach. The more comfortable you are with
it, the more fields will be available to you.