Just trying to make sure I have the gist of this hunting thing figured out. I have been watching the ole YouTube, trying to learn as much as I can. Reading books as well. It’s the best I got, never had someone show me the ropes growing up so figuring it out as I go. The plan- 1) scout from a phone or laptop trying to find transition areas/edge. 2) boots on the ground glass and actually go to said areas. 3) once in the area look for active or fresh sign. 4) after scouting the area, try to determine a bedding location, and where they are heading to/from 5) find a transition area/path between these areas and set up. 6) based off observations made from said hunt, adjust for next time to attempt to catch the deer transitioning from one to another. In these steps make sure to account for wind, wind changes. Is that the basics of it? Anything to add?

I dont think its fair to say those are THE basics, but its good stuff. Lots to add but not enough time to try.
To give useful advice a little more info would help. What can you tell us about the property you are hunting? Also will you be using stands and feeders?
Learning the way you are is good if thats all you got. You have to start somewhere. Asking detail advice on here can help a lot. Finding a mentor that you can spend extensive time with would be best. Good luck.

Piney woods, east Texas WMA. No feeders, will be hunting from a saddle.

Bow?

Tip of the iceberg but a good start. Main thing is to enjoy the process and experience...

Bow, till rifle season opens up. Either or.

Look for white oaks that are dumping acorns. That's your "bait".

Like most everything else in life it is a process. Being "elderly" I have learned that the process is where the fun is. I was fortunate to grow up hunting but even so I could never get enough of reading about hunting, looking at the Boone and Crockett record book while laying in bed at night, and on and on.

You are doing the right thing - reading, watching videos, asking for advice, etc. If possible try to hunt with folks who are experienced and watch them and pick their brains. It is a great hobby and hard to beat! Good luck

Like DQ said, make sure to have fun and stop and smell the roses. Sunrises, sunsets and the wildlife are the icing on the cake.

100% agree