I have taught many people to crochet over the years, and many get frustrated because they cannot crochet the things they see me crocheting. They forget that I have been crocheting since I was 11 years old and that with time comes skill.
I teach newbies to do the foundation chain and the double crochet stitch. They are the most common stitches, at least that I have found.
Once you have the chain and double crochet down, you can crochet a granny square which can be crocheted into many things.
Take your time and don't get frustrated if you cannot crochet like the people you have known to crochet for a while. Get comfortable with one stitch at a time and use it until you master it and your crocheting experience will be a happier and more fruitful one!

Sheri Adams