Until you have something on paper you have not exerted enough effort to justify quitting or seeking help. If you seek help too soon, either from your instructor or classmate, you will not gain the maximum benefit from your work. ON the other hand, you must ask questions and get help when necessary. J Sometimes little things cause considerable confusion. Do not be afraid your question will sound dumb.
Some people seek help too soon, and others wait too long.
You must use your good common sense in this matter. The fundamental principles and ways of thinking, as well as many of the finer points, will be developed in class. You must pay careful attention to these discussions in order to really understand what is going on. Do not be surprised if a topic or problem completely baffles you at first. Stay with it.