protools getting started guide with tell you all of this...also I recommend buying or downloading the pro tools method one training dvd, it's packed with use full information. I'm a total newb as well but I read the started guide countless times and have started watching this method one dvd every day and trying to apply it somehow and beacause of this my understanding is growing every day. Over all pro tools is as easy as they come for daw programs, I use logic for producing and that can make you want to pull your hair out at times but, everything makes sense in a simple way in pro tools. all you need to know is the signal flow (how the internal routing works, etc..) and it becomes easier. peace