I am a total beginner. Looking to learn some basics

Hello!
I have a solid goal I am looking to achieve (short and long term), but I have no idea where to start! 
Short term goal:
I am trying to create multiple data packs each overhauling a single vanilla structure in the game. This also includes custom loot tables along with it. (Maybe another data pack to add custom items to those loot tables via custom gear made with command blocks).
Progress:
I have downloaded VS code (with the data pack helper extension), as well as looking up multiple YouTube tutorials (not understanding much). Today I was able to follow a tutorial verbatim and actually created a chest with a custom loot table using an online code generator and a YouTube guide. 
Question:
I am willing to put all my time into learning this. Do I need to take a JavaScript class? Or can I learn from a specific creator? How did you guys learn how to code and make data packs? Whenever people explain their code it all sounds like gibberish to me. Any resources or recommendations would help me out a ton.