@shansterable @PurpleJillybeans
As a beginner, I recommend you to start with Linux Mint or Kubuntu bc of their look and feel similar to Windows and a really good documentation.
Basically, once the operating system (OS) is installed (and it is quite easy to do by now), the computer is set for the usual every day tasks. There are some functionalities that you will still need to install manually, such as multi touch for some reason, but basically, you can work with it without further knowledge.