The key is to learn it in steps as most suggested - take it a little at a time, get to understand it, then add another step. I'm really getting very good at manual, but now I am ready to do RAW - (a little scared though!). But, now that I understand manual, I see the NEED for RAW & it gives me the courage to step out & learn.
When I first started, I only used manual to pratice (a little practice EVERY day - on my dog, on the plants outside, my furniture, kids - whatever I could find to shoot!), but when I went to a function I would revert to auto just to make sure I was getting good pictures - after a couple of weeks practicing everyday, I began to take a few shots manual at functions & then revert to auto just in case I didn't like my manual shots. Pretty soon, I realized I wasn't using auto hardly at all & just stuck with manual - wouldn't go back!
One step at a time & you don't ever stop learning, there is always something new - and don't underestimate your camera's manual - while pretty dry reading, you would be surprised at what you pick up if you sit and read a section every month or two.
Good luck!
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