checking fluid levels for idiots

I've been having troubles gearing down in my car and I get a squeeking noise when I turn my steering wheel all the way so I decided to do some DIY research on how stuff works. First thing to always check are your fluid levels. I am a car maintenance retard, first class. I found these sites pretty easy to follow:

http://www.edmunds.com/ownership/parts/articles/45400/article.html (even has a video)
http://www.ehow.com/how_108_check-power-steering.html

Also check your belts:
http://www.ehow.com/how_109_check-belts.html

My dad thought my shifting problems might be due to low brake fluid but I checked and it's all there. The squeeking noise is likely a need for a new power steering belt as my power steering fluid is all there too. In any case, I'm taking my car to a kid in my neighbourhood who is a certified mechanic/student/car club founder. I found him on craigslist and he promises to check out the car for free and clutch jobs (God forbid) start at $250 from him which is actually not a bad deal. I'll let you know how the kid works out and post his info if he meets with my approval.