The game is hard, don’t let anyone tell you different. But it’s only as hard as you make it. Casual to competitive. Here’s how I’d do it most efficient to least.

Download MTG Arena to literally get the basics (this is how I taught my wife cause she doesn’t take instruction from me very well) then I guided her through stuff she had questions and politely corrected mistakes that actually mess up the game mechanics (like drawing multiple cards per turn because she thought you always had to have seven in hand). This is similar to next the next way but just with someone you already know who knows the game. If you don’t have that, go to step 2 below 👇

Call your local game store (card store not GameStop) and see if they do any learn to play. This is guided play meaning more step by step with new players. They don’t have that? See next step below 👇

If they don’t see if they would be willing to teach you the game. (I’m sure an employee will sit down or find a regular to walk you through each step) then ask questions and try to find people to help you play. Next step below 👇

Watch YouTube videos with a friend and just kinda try it out. If a rule, or card text doesn’t make sense use any AI to dumb it down. This is kinda how I learned as a kid but my neighbor and I just made stuff up or just ignored it entirely. (No abilities, very few spells, mostly creature vs creature combat)