hi Brian Joseph,
u will become accustomed to the code once u spend some time looking at samples. i was frustrated just like u in the begining too. it is important to mention however that,supposedly, the actual exam will not have any confusing or non-english modifiers (like u mentioned). and i bet even if it did, u will be 'expert enough' by that time provided that u would have done homework.
so dont worry about them,if u have just jumped in.
(i still have to take the exam, shortly)
best of luck.