Though dream journals are optional, it sure would help to have one. Even if you do have decent recall, it would be better to have great recall.

Recognizing dream signs are definitely useful. It majorly increases your chance at becoming lucid in a dream.

I wouldn't recommend WILD for beginners, I would probably stick w/ the reality checks and do DEILDs for now. But if you don't like them, maybe try MILD.

Welcome ^.^