Begin with one position you want to understand. An opening name is a useful signpost, but the real questions are concrete: which squares matter, which pieces need developing, and what is your opponent threatening? Answer those questions before trying to remember a long sequence. You will have something to fall back on when a game leaves your preparation.
Use this knowledge library as a route into practice. Opening Essentials explains the ideas shared by many systems. The White and Black guides help you choose positions you enjoy. Repertoire lessons turn those choices into a manageable set of replies, while training lessons explain how to test recall and learn from games. The opening histories show how familiar moves acquired their names and strategic character.
For a first session, examine the Italian position beside this lesson. White's knight attacks e5, the bishop points towards f7, and castling is nearly ready. Follow the practice link and play the moves yourself. Afterwards, say what each move achieved without looking at the notation. A correct sequence accompanied by a clear explanation is more useful than a sequence copied from memory alone.
Return after playing a game and study the first decision that surprised you. Add a small amount of preparation there, then revisit it on another day. Combine opening study with calculation, endgames and game review: reaching a familiar position is the beginning of playing it well.
Try this at the board
Play the Italian setup, close the move list, and name two sensible development goals for White.