One bit of advice that I learned in art school and think applies to all sorts of learning is: "Work general to specific". When painting, you first block in lar

One bit of advice that I learned in art school and think applies to all sorts of learning is: "Work general to specific". When painting, you first block in large sections, then break those down into smaller sections, smaller and smaller until you arrive at the level of detail you want. I'm now a software developer, but take the same approach when learning a customer's domain or a new language or framework. I first get the "big picture", then break that down further and further by reading, asking, and listening. Re number 4, yes, you have a chance, unless you got fired today. Have the attitude that you can and will learn this domain and quickly become an expert.