Adam, without sounding nasty, try and read as much as possible on carp fishing. Magazines, books like "carp fever" or "to catch a carp" will clear(?) up so many of your questions. Do you know what a method feeder is? Why or When to use it? Forums like these can give you some pointers, but it would be better to just go to a lake, look for someone who looks like they know what they are doing, and ASK THEM if you can ask them question. If they say no, say thanks and move onto the next victim! Dont be pushy, and dont overstay your welcome, but it sounds like you need some really fundemental advice that it would take forever to explain on here!!
Good luck