First thing I'd suggest is to stop comparing it to the Curve, whole different platform (operating system/form factor)
Second thing is use the phone, just start messing with it and familiarizing yourself with the phone. That is the best way to get familiar with your phone... kind of like life, you can read books and ask questions BUT your real experience just comes from living.
Personally the first thing I did was put a custom rom on my phone and ditched the OEM, didn't even try to use the Sprint Rom
Have fun learning!!!