If you don't know someone who can give you a personal recommendation, the best place to start looking is in the phone book under such headings as Aviation or Flight Training . Most public airports offer training, either through a flight school run by an FBO , a club, or independent instructors. Uncontrolled airports are usually less busy, which means less time and money spent waiting to taxi, take off, etc. Choosing the right CFI could be the most important decision you make. The best idea is to do everything you can, since you should be trying to learn the material, not just to pass a test.
Students can learn from each other's experiences.
Attending classes regularly can help keep your study on track, especially if there are quizzes. You will probably never be more ready to take the written than right at the end of ground school. Software can be useful to prepare for the test. It won't teach you the material, but it will tell you how ready you are to take the test. When I got through them all, I knew I was ready to take the real test.