If you want to teach yourself on an electric...
- read and study (the forums is a good starting place)
- get a simulator (FMS is a free download, just google for "FMS simulator". I did not get version 8.x to run on my XP but version 7 works. Others have had no problems. I just use the keyboard for control: getting the perspective/point of view was/is the main point for me.)
- Get a slow foamy and a decent radio. GWS Slow Stick and Beaver are popular choices. I took the E-Starter but it is relatively "fast".
- find a large flat area on a day when there is no wind.