Where/How should I start?

veganzombiez: So, I'm downloading the game right now, and I've been reading stickies in the Game Discussion and Newcomers forums, but I have no idea where a new player should start.  Do I go with arty and learn the maps via the birds eye view?  Do I grab a light and learn the maps by scouting, as well as the outlines of tanks and just general gameplay?  Or do I defend as a heavy and practice my aim first?

I've commandeered tanks in the Battlefield series, so I understand some basics (hiding behind cover, moving out to shoot, angling the tank, etc.). I understand that WoT will be far more in-depth, but go ahead and approach this as though I'm a total noob because what might be common knowledge to you might be new to me.

Thanks!