How do I use Panels to replace a default node page?
I found using Views, panels and Ctools a complex and steep learning curve.  Two resources have been very helpful. 1. The video series from Nodeone.se has two video series that can help, "Taming the Beast' (views) and 'Learning Pagemaker'which includes panels. 2. The new book "Drupal's Building Blocks" by Earl and Lynette Miles (Merlinofchaos at drupal.org).