Roger - Something else to consider, is that as time goes on, without having the "Visual" tab in the editor anymore, any issues that you do have you may not find much support for. There are a few here who are experienced enough with the Editor to help with those issues now, but they aren't likely to keep that version just so they can help a few out here and there, they are going to move on with the newer versions themselves.
As Per mentioned, using the split-screen preview is a great way to go. Another "helping aid" that I found to be real helpful, is to grab pages off the net that you like (either overall or a specific feature). Open that page in the editor and change things to see what does what. And as always, you are always welcome to ask for help here.
Living the dream, stocking the cream