queens gambit

is there an easier to understand formula for how to open effectively and efficiently with this line ?
as i tend to misread the various opening ideas of both attack and defence.
im not looking for analysis of my games or put downs about my game play, im just looking for easier steps to understanding thats all.
and yes i have watched youtube videos but one rarely finds those positions in real life.

The difference between watching YouTube passively and actively are two different things. When you are watching youtube are you playing the position out on the board pausing the video and thinking about what should come next and why before the videos tell you to do? I would only be concerned with the critical first 6-7 moves and then think about what are the key concepts of the middle game.

I think having an idea of what the opening is about, avoiding the main line and knowing the few critical replies CONNECTED with a middle game concept/thematic idea. (This game is about attacking this pawn, or xyz) Understanding how to punish for off book moves early.

In general it is about completing the development (Nf3, Bd3, O-O) and then play e4.