So I have pretty much never played a fighting game in my life. I didn't grow up in any arcades during the '90s and the only game I bought which was a fighting game was Mortal Kombat 3 on the PlayStation. I think it was not a very good game and only played it when I didn't know the different between games that are good or bad. I was never good at it and didn't play it much.
 
So today I decided to preorder Super Street Fighter IV which comes out tomorrow in the UK. After all it was only £25 and for a game that got 5 stars on Giant Bomb I though this much be a fantastic game that I'm probably going to miss if I don't buy it now.
 
So, since this is my first serious time with a fighting game, can you give me any tips, guides and advice I need in order to firstly know how to play the actual game (all I know is that you wiggle a stick and press lots of buttons) and then be able to compete with people and play with friends.
 
Edit: Thank you mods for fixing my thread!

Just concentrate on having fun at first, play around with all of the characters and get used to the overall feel of the game. You should then choose to settle using either Ken or Ryu, doing so will help you grow accustomed to the nature of the special moves, combos and timing the game has, a lot quicker than otherwise.  
 
Play friends often and get competitive about it, it'll force you to improve your game.
 
You should join Shoryuken.com and Capcom Unity

Done.

I'd suggest watching my tutorial videos sticky post, and playing with some friends who are also new to Street Fighter.