The only way to learn how to program is to program. That may sound a little daunting, but someone can tell you all day long how to do, but until you start typing out the code (like Mark did) and look for the right functions on your own, then you'll never figure it out (unless you're incredibly gifted).
I would hazard a guess as to say that every one of the gurus as well as many of the simple hackers on this forum, learned how to program in AutoLISP by doing it for themselves mostly. I know we've all asked questions on how to do things, hell we still do, but we all started from the same place you are. Square one.
The advantage that I see that you and many of the new LISPers out there have, is that you guys/gals can come to the Swamp and ask away. This place is the best and most supportive group of coding individuals that I've ever run across. There is no limit to the generosity of these coders. They give source code, time and advice as if it all were just lying around on the ground just waiting to be picked up.
So ask your questions, don't be surprised when we give code, don't be surprised if we DON'T give code, but instead do our best to prompt you in the right direction. But when you ask, just give us the most info you can. That'll help you to ask the right question, as well as give us the chance to actually understand the question you're asking (some of us, namely me, can be pretty dense sometimes).
So, in closing this incredibly long diatribe, let me say welcome to the wonderful (and often frustrating) world of Auto/Visual LISP programming.