fads
I have a lot of learning to do...I need to find a good source for all of this, any suggestions.
When I run into something problematic, I check out the documentation and/or do a google search on the site. Either way is much faster than posting in the forum - particularly because if it's pilot error, peoples' suggestions will often lead you astray because they'll assume you need a technical solution. There are also references like the Garrigus books, my SONAR columns in Sound on Sound, and the like.
The good news is that after a while, things fall into place and you can be very productive. The bad news is you can always learn more...not unlike playing a musical instrument. After doing recording for over 50 years (I got an early start, haha), I know
just enough to get by...but when I don't, there's always the forums