What are quick and easy ways to learn, and what should i focus on I've always loved chess, but never was really serieus about it. Lately I've picked up trying to get better and bringing up my game to a new level. I started playing online a lot and currently watching videos on chess on daily base.

Chess.com is providing the needed lessons on all the basic things but as a beginner there is so much stuff to learn.

What should a beginner focus on (think about openings, end games, ways to mate, etc.) 

Also I was wondering if anyone an easy way to learn the chess notations, I get how the squares are lined up and everything but I need practice (maybe software or a paper method anyone knows of).
A beginner should focus on playing games, solving tactic puzzles and playing through annotated master games. 

If you play through master games with a real board instead of at the computer, you will quickly learn the notation as well.