Hey! Well done on committing to SW
Some tips that I've found handy...
1. Plan- don't go shopping without knowing at least a few meals that you plan to make during the week. Buying SW food can become expensive if you don't plan-the majority of things are made from scratch so it's important to know exactly what you need to buy for each meal.
2. Cook in bulk/Freeze leftovers- I do it alone, no one else in my house follows it which means that if I'm making Spag bol I have to defrost a whole packet of mince for myself. Obviously I can't (nor want to ) eat all of that in one go but what I do, do is make a BIG batch of spag bol and then portion off the remainder in to sandwhich/freezer bags and freeze. Meaning that I have quick and handy meals at the ready as and when I need them.
3. To get to grips with free, superfree, HE's and syns you really need to study your book. Perhaps go through and highlight foods that you plan on eating regularly or make a list of the foods that you eat regularly? That way they'll be at hand quickly. You'll find you'll learn the value of quite a few foods quickly.
4. Read through the food diaries on here. You'll find LOADS of interesting meals and suggestions on what to have. Don't be afraid to ask questions and for recipes. Everyone's really helpful.
5. I personally don't go to group but utilise your consultant. Ask questions, if you need to sit in on the new members talk again then do it. That's what he/she is paid for and it's only right that you use the service that you are paying for.
Hope that's been some help, there are lots of people on here with a really in depth knowledge of the plan who have followed it for years who I'm sure will also have some advice for you but I hope that's a start. Good luck!