^lol the classic iNinjas horseplay

My view is this. When starting you want to see results to get you as motivated as possible. So pick one of the automated tools just to feel a sense that it's real (not just mythical talk that the others only understand).
Once you experience some sort of success for yourself you'll have reassurance to keep at it. And perhaps see where you wanna focus your efforts in future.
So I'd say try out some tools like pirni, ipwn or (for me it was) ettercap. Even use a scanner to find a device with port 22 open and try ssh into it.
Then consider where you wanna go from there.
Enjoy and good luck