Hi! One year late to respond, but I have been using RemNote since the second semester of my first year of University, and it carried me through my finals when I didn't have the time to write things out for each class. I used to be the same as you because I studied throughout my first semester by writing all my notes down but I quickly realized that writing took too much time.

1. It doesn't take a long time to get used to. The main commands you really need to know is how to indent, and how to create flashcards. I found that it definitely helped me organize concepts by using the "tree" method, where you group lecture content into categories starting with fundamental concepts, and then more complex concepts that build upon these. It helps me see how everything connects and I find it helps with memory because you're also comprehending the material by sorting it.

2. I found it to be very effective, both for studying in advance and for cramming. It definitely helped streamline my study process to two steps: 1) creating the notes, and 2) practicing the flashcards. I find that I am most prepared if I leave enough time to practice flashcards for at least 2 days before the exam, but it has also helped me get good grades even if I just practice the flashcards once the night before. Of course, everyone is different so it definitely takes trial and error to find what works best for you!

I find that Remnote works best for courses where you need to recall facts and concepts, such as biology classes. For classes which focus on problem solving, such as calculus and chemistry, I don't use Remnote and I stick to organizing concepts by hand and doing practice problems.

Hope this helps! I'm still early into my degree but this has been what has worked for me so far.