These are all excellent perspectives and advice. Additionally the three biggest issues you will probably deal with are; holding, copying a clearance and having the confidence and competence to safely operate in the system, in actual conditions. Do not just approach this training with the goal of passing a checkride. If you have time, I might suggest learning the holding procedures, and the rules associated with it. Most everyone gets wrapped around the axle while learning that skill. It will really make things easier, once you officially start your training. Get the knowledge test out the way as well, it will greatly help with your training and you will not have that monkey on your back when approaching checkride time or to interfere with other studies. Good luck