Hey man, sorry to hear about the struggle. The software is definitely not easy to crack, but it's very rewarding when you get to understand how it works.
I told you in another post about the logical and physical layers of the buttons; I know it's hard to work with both layers, but you could try this: write down which button does what (for example the 2 encoders, the way they're programmed by default, also the ministick). Then start from the first cell on the Physical layer: click on it, program it as a Button (if it's not a Button already), then click on the button which is the logical representation (the window will extend), then check the Automapping box. Close that window and move on to button 2, then 3, until you'll finish them all on the chart. While the Poll box is checked click on the encoders and ministick center button and re-program them as they were by default. Now you'll have both physical and logical layer representing the same number and hopefully this would make it easier for you to track the changes you make.
I know it's frustrating to have this magic software which could do practically everything that one would need in a flight sim and not knowing how to handle it, but don't forget that, if it gets too stressful, you could always press the default button and play with it as it is. You could always come back and start all over, but don't forget to have fun
