Get a comfortable elbow anchor set for your farthest intended point of the weld. Set up there, then check your start point to make sure it's still reasonably comfortable. A lot of guys fixate on the start, then end up shifting or straining to finish the weld. 3/32 wire is where it's at... Burns hot enough to make substantial structural welds, yet cool enough for moderately lighter gauge steel.
Keep at it. Your on the right track. It's all about finding what works for you. I've been a welder for over 12 yrs now, and I'm still learning tricks to make myself better and more efficient. It'll come in time. Most important thing is to take pride in it. If you have that, you'll never fail.