Old guy with a newbie ????

[Histep]

Hi,
Maybe I'm a little obtuse, but I always have difficulty grasping these forums.
Is there a thread or a sticky somewhere that fully explains how to setup and use all the various forum settings? I have indeed read all the FAQ's and don't see what I need in there.

Examples:
Why are some thread titles in bold and others not?
What does the " thread starter do?"
What is the PROPER way to log in?
I frequently find myself to be logged in on several pages. Can't I log in and out only one time? If I forget or miss a page, will the site log me out ? Some times, I get the pop up telling me that I am not logged in when indeed I am.
Thanks for your help,
HERB