John,

Think of the runway as the barrel of a loaded rifle. Don't stand on it or in line with it too long. It's the gathering point for a lot of high speed, high-energy projectiles which roar, shriek, sputter, and whir. Use the runway just long enough, and move on.

If you intend to use the runway for a stop-and-go landing, then inform the tower, or tell them you would like the option. The option allows you to go around, touch and go, stop and go, or full stop.

If you're doing a full stop, unless you've already arranged to stop on the runway, taxi clear at the first available intersection (except if it's onto a another runway...you need to coordinate that in advance).

Don't let that direction make you feel that you need to lock up the brakes and get off at the very first intersection you pass, however. You don't need to necessarily get off the runway at the one ATC advises, either. I've had many occasions when ATC might say "exit at Delta" and I've responded "unable." I'm going too fast, and Delta is too soon. I need the next one, or the one after that. It's my runway until I get clear, but good airmanship dictates that I don't abuse it. I get down, get stopped, and get clear.

You don't want to become the object of the next big runway incursion. The runway isn't a safe environment to sit around, so do your thing and then step aside so someone else can do theirs. Don't let anyone rush you in the process, however, and don't rush yourself. There's plenty of time. Take all you need...the trick is not taking more than what you need.

Yes, you need to get familiar with the AIM. It's chock full of some very important things.