This application is very useful to get an instant print out of pipe properties
All you have to do is download it to your Computer (works on all Windows Versions) and you will only have to enter in a few basic pipe details and the rest will be calculated e.g pipe ID, Pipe OD, Pipe Wall thickness, Traverse Metal Area, Section Modulus, Moment of Inertia, Surface Area Inside and Outside and also the weight.
Another useful reference tool is an explanation of different types of flanges and joints.
You can also familiarize yourself using the explanation of socket weld, threaded and lap joints here
This is probably enough to get a beginner started.