I used to typeset assignments and notes using Microsoft formula editor. Only by the end of the last year was I motivated to start using $\LaTeX$ by virtue of its simplicity, elegance and professionality, especially the way it handles citations and references – easily and efficiently.

I found it natural to transit from formula editor to $\LaTeX$, as there is a consistency along syntax (more complicated, of course). Within the transition, I have been using LyX as an intermediate typesetting tool. So if directly start working with $\LaTeX$ seems not intuitive, maybe try LyX first. Tutorials are almost surely helpful.

After all, the best way to learn $\LaTeX$, it seems, is to follow a template and write one’s own, say, paper.