What should a complete beginner focus on first?

Learn the rules thoroughly - especially the kitchen and double-bounce rules.

Dinking! It's the most important shot in pickleball. Master the soft game first.

Consistency over power. Just get the ball back over the net.

Watch some YouTube tutorials - tons of great free content for beginners.

Footwork and positioning are more important than fancy shots.

Practice your serve until it's reliable. An unreliable serve kills your game.