• you're going to learn a lot and have fun!
• keys to success: keep on the pace, do the work, participate in the community
• arrange at the piano or in MuseScore - ideally both
• if not using MuseScore, at least use manuscript paper
• "all jazz sounds the same"
• summary of overall approach: melody, rhythm, chords, voicings, other accompaniment

Other resources:

• Basic Music Theory (free handouts)
• Harmony and Chord Progressions (free handouts)