I didnt want to jump in here but I have to agree with the last comment but I also see the other side of too.

I came from a Lightwave background into Maya so it was a huuuge learning curve as it was so different, my point being, yes the manuals are there for you to find out how things work, but heres the catch, if you dont know what something is called how can you find it out? Just some food for thought: Lightwaves version of Subds were called Meta nurbs, so...

If you are a noob and have a little or no knowledge it can be a little tough, but if you want it bad enough you'll find out one way or another. I dont mind helping dudes out either but they have to show they are willing to help themselves in the first place.

Lastly to any noob reading this: it will not happen over night, Maya is a monster bit of kit to learn and you WILL NOT learn everything. Ive been using Maya in my day job for 7 years now and Im still finding different ways to do stuff.

Jay