Simulator helps or not ?
I learned to fly before simulators were available, and soloed after 15 or 20 flights.
I've used RealFlight quite a bit since, and am impressed with MOST of it's characteristics. Landings are probably the furthest thing from real, which is one of the hardest things for most people just learning.
I believe that if I'd had this sim before learning, I could have cut my time to solo in half, maybe less.
Dennis-