I started with a parkzone p-51 and crashed it on its first left turn lol. I had no idea about dual rates or anything. Looking back I was destined to fail because of my lack of knowledge of simply where to start so kudos to you for taking the patient first steps! Ultimately, the best way to start out is by buddying up with a trainer. This way, when you get into trouble( yes, inevitably you will get into some trouble in the beginning!) the trainer can instantly take control and get you back up to a safe altitude. This is by far the least expensive and overall least stressful way to learn. All AMA chartered clubs have their certified trainers and one will even let you try out the field and get a feel for the buddy box setup. Most clubs have club trainer planes you can learn on at no cost to you ( but its a great gesture to supply the fuel!). Everybody is different and we all have our own learning styles but if you want to learn to fly without losing many planes in the process, go to a local club and try buddying up with a trainer. Like I said, they'll let you try it out and see if you like it before you make any commitment to club dues or anything like that. Hope this helps!