Right or wrong approach?

Hi all,  I am wondering if I am doing right in chess mentor. After 40 some hours my average is 57.75%. The mentor gives me 1800 and 1900 problems.  I usually try to go without hints unless I am clueless ( I am usually wrong even if I don't think I am clueless at the time) I am really probably a 1300 something player.  I do like the mentor and I see I am getting a little better at developing moves but should I be spending more time on basic skills? Or, continue on over my head because I like it. I am a me Vs computer player only. Live on line play unnerves me for some reason. Ego? My heart pounds and I'm gonna have a heart attack, who can think? Thanks for your replies