Learning to Ski

I like what Dave and Ranchero have to say. As an introduction, I am presently employed as a ski instructor in Canada (25 years as a patroller before that). I have taught many adult "never-evers" this season with varying degrees of success. I have many examples of first-timers really doing well with just a few hours under their belt.

I think the shortest answer is to get experience. No one can talk or read their way to being a better skier. The wedge (snowplow) is a very useful tool. If taught properly, naturally leads to parallel. There are a handful of technical reference points that apply just as much to the wedge as parallel.

Again, just get out here and learn and practice and have fun. Proper instruction will save you many many hours of experimenting on your own. Proper technical teaching will allow you to progress easily from wedge to parallel and beyond.