I always recommend to read the quick start documentation. https://github.com/Maproom/qma…wiki/DocQuickStartEnglish
Anyways, one core principle is to have data for different purposes separated from each other. This is not like Garmin's IMG files that include Maps, Pois, DEM and Routing data in one file. In QMapshack all these features are on independent layers. By that you can mix information from independent sources, e.g. use more up-to-date routing data or DEM data with better resolution.
Usually the online map of OSM is a pretty good start. Next I would recommend to use BRouter as routing engine. Use the wizard to install BRouter locally and to download the necessary routing data for the region of interest. Don't forget to check the on-the-fly routing checkbox. This should leave you with a very simple system to plan routes.
There is also Routino. In the past this was a bit nicer to plan hiking trails. But I hardly use it lately. And the MapQuest online router was good for planning routes for cars. But the API expired so it's useless.
Edit: to search for locations: Menu->Workspace->Geosearch (but you need to register with the search services)