I started with EQ7, and learned how to do most things fairly quickly and easily without taking any lessons. I upgraded to EQ8 when it came out. It took a short amount of time to get used to the changes, but now I love it. I use it to design every quilt I make. I use it to design blocks, to test out fabric combos, to determine yardage amounts, etc. Wonderful product. I strongly recommend EQ8. If you start with EQ 8 and haven't used EQ7 I think it will be even easier to learn.