ImaGleek, it is not easy to answer your questions. CAW can be tricky at the begining, but as soon as you get used to what is where, and read the tutorial, it should be easy enough. It does take some time to get used to it.
As for second question - world can be done in a day or two, or in a few months - again, depending on size of the world, and the amount of details you decide to put in.
For start - use small flat map and play around to see what each option means, and ask questions if you can't find it by yourself. Once you get used to it, it is a great tool to play with:) Good luck.
