the arch linux wiki isn't a great getting started, but is a phenomenal resource whenever you come across something you don't understand or are troubleshooting.

I think throwing debian or ubuntu on a VM is a good start. learn how to update your system, install applications from the package manager as well as from internet is a good place to start.

distributions don't really matter so don't waste too much time on "which distro".

not sure if this is at all helpful, but cheers 🤙🫂