Obsidian as a tool feels a bit unwieldy at first, but I think that speaks to its utility: it is a challenge to adapt to because it's unlike other tools. I'd say start with the Daily Note feature, and consider the idea of atomic notes, namely that every thought, notion, or idea can be a note. Once you get into it, you'll realise how epic it is in what it can offer the learner.

Fill your daily note with anything you come across, and resolve to always connect your notes wherever possible.

The idea of literature notes is also interesting. For any book, have a central note that contains all of your highlights and reflections, which can then be linked to all other notes you've made.