To set the tension knob on all these type reels is simple, put whatever line
and lure you are going to use on and reel it up close to the tip, now
pressdown on the casting button while holding the spool with your thumb.
Release the spool and let the line run free till the lure hits the ground.
If the spool causes a birds nest the knob isn't tight enough, tighten and
test till the lure falls relatively fast but has very little overrun that
causes a birds nest. The more you use the reel and get an "educated thumb"
the less you'll use any of the adjustments and the better the reel will
perform.
Don't try to cast to the moon on your first practices, accuracy in casting
is more important than distance. Cast to something in your yard like a Hoola
Hoop or kids wading pool about 25 to 30 ft away, when 9 out of 10 goes in
look for a bucket and start over, when you have that licked you are as good
as most fisherman.