@1st timer As others have stated, have FUN. I say drink a few beers too
I've been smoking and grilling on average three times a week for 34 years and I'm still learning!
If your just learning to BBQ, keep a journal of your first 20-30 cooks. I keep a sausage making journal, but that's a little more involved than BBQ.
Smoking small flats can be hit or miss IMHO. I'd suggest a 10-12 pound whole packer brisket (prime or choice) for your next brisket cook.
WKC is a great forum for learning. Lots of knowledgeable people here, that are more then willing to help out a newbie. We all have to start somewhere.
Cheers