Zoom vs Maximize is confusing for most Mac newbs but you will soon understand why zoom is more efficient. Here's a link that explains the difference from a UI design standpoint. It can be summed up with this one sentence.
"Don't assume that the standard state should be as large as possible; some monitors are much larger than the useful size for a window."
http://www.xvsxp.com/interface/max_vs_zoom.php
Get flip4mac. Don't waste your time with WMP. They've stopped developing it.
An sitx or sit file is a Stuffit file. Just like a .zip or .tar file. Get Stuffit expander. Not sure why it doesn't come installed anymore. Look for the free version that expands only.
Use Cotton on your screens with a little water. You will scratch the glossy Macbook screen if you use paper towel.