If one hasn't been exposed to this stuff it can be difficult. The key is in finding the means to make it less difficult while learning what is required. The FAA does not care how or where people learn, just so they do learn what is required. Once the fundamentals are understood the rest becomes a lot easier.
Be happy we aren't climbing the class and rating ladder. Each step of the way is more difficult than the last. Fortunately there's an existing knowledge foundation from the previous rating to ease the process. In some ways better, some not, we don't have to demonstrate proficiency with a practical exam.
We have to work for it if we really want to be a commercial operator, but that's not a bad thing.