For beginners in lens design, it's crucial to narrow down the focus to either lens manufacturing or optical system design, with an emphasis on the intended application. Access to design software like OSLO and Zemax is beneficial, and training sessions are recommended to complement the manuals. Key references include basic optical design books by Laikin and Kingslake, as well as "Practical Computer-Aided Lens Design" by Gregory Hallock Smith for Zemax users. Starting with paraxial approximations and solving simple problems, such as collimating light or imaging, can provide practical experience. Engaging with product catalogs from companies like Melles Griot and Thor Labs can also enhance understanding of available optical components.