For a beginner I would recommend just leaving the wick in so you don't have to mess around with the atomizer. If you're using the carts that come with the unit, those aren't very reliable; I would direct drip if you have juice.
Every time I get a new atomizer I put a paper towel under the atomizer where the battery threads are and blow into the cartridge so the primer juice is blown onto the paper towel. Then I add about 4-6 drops. If I get a burnt taste I add more juice. After that point everything should be working fine (flavor, vapor, etc). Then you would continue adding 3 drops everything the flavor and or vapor diminishes.
Furthermore, if you're still getting the burnt taste after blowing out the primer juice and dripping for a while, you may have gotten a defective atomizer. This does happen and you should contact the supplier and let them know the issue.