Maybe worth capturing all those ideas into one; maybe Det could do a better job, but a start (and adding some tips):
- use a quick draw weapon (SMG) for FFA matches.
- I'd personally add a silencer, as it won't hinder too much at close quarters and will not give away your position as you take half an hour to line the opposition guy up and take a few pot shots at him.
- I'd also add Slight Of Hand perk, it will quicken reloads of your ammo.
- The Famas is a good, accurate, assult rifle for the new guys should you want something a little longer range.
- dont run around a corner; do run. All in all, expect an enemy around every corner; I come around by brining up the sights just as I peek round; getting to know the maps you'll have a good idea where to look/aim to.
- try different tactics; copy ideas and sometimes try your own weird ideas; jump out a window, sit behind a bin, do whatever you like; most of all enjoy it.
Practice = giving it time = learning = better
- public games are the best fun, but maybe try the Training mode a few times; different difficulty settings and will get you into the swing, and you'll get a much easier time on the easy setting. It will help teach you gun characteristics, perk styles etc, without getting hammered by the public folk. And theres no lag.
- alternatively play some private matches with mates who are easy going.
- Kzacsa is right; change the game mode. TDM and some of the objective games (Demolition, Headquarters) can take the heat off you, as all your team mates run to an area, you can just follow and pick up the pieces. Must admit enemies might spawn behind you in Black Ops though, so keep a keen eye. Demolition should give you an easy chance to mince around and learn the maps. And give you time to Aim Down Sights and line someone up for a kill.
- by all means equip Spy Plane, but do not rely upon it IMHO. You might spend too long looking at it, and as much as you notice a bunch of red dots in the next street, there could easily be a hidden guy around the next corner, much closer to you. Play the map, not the HUD (Heads Up Display).
- top tip; accept it is a bit of a bugy game; there are issues with lag (hence public games people seem to see you sooner than you saw them), so you can never take it seriously, and accept there are plenty of decent players out there. Hook up with some AVF'ers if you want some banter and laughs over the microphones.