How deeply you'll want to delve into the mysteries of DOS or Windows is up to you. In any case, you'll no doubt be relieved to hear that there are numerous sources of support for your tinkering—in the form of instructive books and ancillary software packages. While I can't claim to have read all the books currently available on the subject of DOS, the best of those I've looked at are Using PC DOS, 2d ed. (1988), MS-DOS User's Guide, 3d ed. (1988), and DOS Tips, Tricks, and Traps (1989), all written by Chris DeVoney and published by Que. The first two DeVoney books are for beginners, and the third is for more experienced users.
If you get frustrated trying to understand your DOS manual, Using PC DOS and MS-DOS User's Guide function well as a substitute. These two volumes take you through the DOS commands, providing pointers and, where ...