Yeah there is a lot to learn, and as with most things of this nature it's going to take some time, and some trial and error.
Go over this page first to find some useful things
BCD396T - The RadioReference Wiki
Mess around with some, put it down for a while, pick it back up, etc. Just don't let yourself get frustrated first and foremost.
Did you get a programming cable with it?
If so was it the included DB9 serial cable, and do you have a PC with a serial port or serial port adapter?
Did you get lucky enough to have a USB-1 cable included maybe?
Getting it hooked up to a PC and using Freescan or UASD may lead to a bit quicker path to getting it going.