ORIGINAL: gaRCfield
One question I have is about dual rates/expo. The instructions say to set up with dual rates, so I did. The plane felt very 'twitchy' my first few flights, even though I was on low rates. I was told to use a little expo, and I did. Then I tried the high rates when I was more comfortable, and was able to take off and land on high rates (actually by accident, forgot about the switch!) So should I even bother with the low rates? Or should I fly for a while without using expo as I am still a new pilot? I was told by an instructor that it's not a crutch, it's a tool, and that's why it's there.
I prefer to take off and land with high rates. The extra elevator is nice, especially for landing. Then I switch to low for general, lazy flying or stick with the high rates for more aerobatic flying. It all depends on the plane too. You may find that you like a combination of throws for a particular plane. For instance, you may want a lot of elevator throw but slow smooth rolls from the ailerons. Set up your rates for your particular plane and how you like to fly it. The throws in the manual are basically a safe starting point.
Exponential.... I personally like a little. Maybe not on every plane but on quite a few of them. I see no need for it on a trainer. I know some VERY good pilots though who absolutely hate it on any type of plane. It boils down to the airplane and personal preference & habits I think.