RE: Greetings! First timer with a basic question
You'll find that there's quite a number of things a sim doesn't do compared to actually being there.
Take offs, for example - a trike gear plane (like the GP PT-40) is very likely to weave/track - especially if you are taking off from grass. Many beginners stand behind their plane when taking off (obviously if it is safe to do so) to straighten the take off.
Also, depending on the ground you are flying from, turbulence is another factor the sims don't always manage. Our strip has a funny "bump" caused by some air pocket at the threshold, which can cause beginners to neutral the elevator (or even push forward), leading to a rough (or damaging) landing.
But the sims can assist with getting your brain to get used to stick movement (you are using a Tx on the sim?). I'ld say that you'll find basic circuits on a calm day are pretty similar to the sim, but apart from that, there's too many variables at play.