Just the recording of IFR is confusing.
Not really...
Am I on an IFR flight plan
Am I Instrument rated (IR(R) is OK)
Am I flying 1000’ above.....
All yes, then IFR it goes - regardless of whether you can see the ground or not. If I can’t see the ground, that bit can go “sole reference” in the IMC column. And for that, then the aircraft should be suitably equipped for the airspace it’s in.