What engine are you running? Engines knocking isnt a good thing and can usually be tuned to get rid of that kind of stuff. Cheaper engines are harder to do this too sometimes. Also inconsistancies at full throttle is also not a good thing(usually it means its lean). You'll find yourself getting alot of dead sticks. Your instructor "should" be able to help with this stuff. And if he cant......I question his experience. Dont be afraid to play around alot tuning your engine on the ground. This is how you learn to tune. Also always have someone hold your plane straight up in the air at full throttle once you think you've got it tuned. If the high needle is lean.....you'll find out when you point the nose up usually.

And some engines will miss a beat in the air at times,but again......you should try to tune it out. But some engines are hopeless,but better engines should work pretty good. Let us know what engine you are running,and we might be able to give you more specific advise.

And yes,you are learning the right way,but be carefull if your not on a buddy cord. Take your time and only do stuff when you feel comfortable.