Nothing is very intuitive in this game. The learning curve is very tough, and I feel the amount of text tutorials drag on and becomes a barrier to my enjoyment...
However, with that being said, I'm 14 hours in, and I'm actually having a fun time. I have no issues learning patterns of the monster, 'nor have I any problem understanding the use of Hunter's Notes, and using weapons (although I much prefer bow). I find that my laziness revolving around all the tutorials benefit my sense of reward, once I dig into the details a second time.
I seriously feel like I've been cheating myself of this experience, having had MH3U on Wii U but never played it, and likewise I wanted 4GU and Generations but never came around to it.
Newcomers like me should shield themselves with some patience; this is quickly becoming one of my favorite experiences over the past year. Really like it, and I hope my skills keep increasing as time goes by, so that I can perhaps introduce my brother and a friend to this with a little bit of experience to engage them!
TL;DR: Really love this game. Oh, and also thanks to the people in here for tips and tricks!