Learning SharePoint Framework Development

I'm having real problems with learning SharePoint Framework Development.  

I've followed tutorials and got my environment set up and got one or two things working.  

The problem I have is when things go wrong, I don't know where to turn.  For example, I tried to look at something like this: https://github.com/SharePoint/sp-dev-fx-webparts/tree/master/samples/js-modern-calendar 

I follow the "Minimal Path To Awesome" and end up with 1748 Task Errors.  Even with my limited expertise I know that's not good.  

But as I mentioned, I've no idea where to start looking for where I've gone wrong, either in my setup or whatever.

As I mentioned, I got a couple of the samples working like the https://github.com/SharePoint/sp-dev-fx-webparts/tree/master/samples/react-list-form so I guess there's also something I've done right too.

Anyway, if there's anyone that can kick me in the right direction as to where/how I can understand why a particular sample so spectacularly fails that would be wonderful.

I'd also welcome any links to tutorials or advice that you may have found useful.

Thanks in advance...

John