I would not worry too much about the throttle at this stage - your confusion basically boils down to different techniques required for different types. Let us know what you are going to be flying and then the advice here will be a little less confusing.
I'll be flying an R22.
And about the preparation...I just don't want to stumble in there without a clue...it'll make the half hour ground more effective...and I'll actually be able to accomplish more flying in the air.