For me, it helped to do 2 readings of the flight manual.. and this goes for the A10c and KA50.
First read through, make it brief, just to get an idea of the what the different systems are and what the different capabilities are.
Then thoroughly study on the second read through. I would sit in a parked jet, and read through everything, while actuating the different switches, systems, MFD elements, etc. This does take a long time, but I always felt I learned WHY we do things, and not just memorize steps. Once I went through this once, yes there were still times I'd be referring to the manual, tutorials, or other sources, but I always felt I had a solid foundation of each aircraft.
Just what worked for me. The manuals have been an absolute KEY.
I think the F18 will be worse than the a10c. Air refueling, carrier ops, SEAD, air to air and air to ground radar, SEAD. Should be fun:D