Basically new player, looking for advice

So, I've been playing casually for over a year now, but as of the past while I've been wanting to step my game up. I know basic rules and concepts, and have a basic enough opening knowledge that I can respond to most common early games, but I want to start to make that leap to beginning to become a "good" player.

Of course, the problem is, I'm not really sure how to start doing that. I know that the most important thing is to get an understanding of broad tactics as opposed to blind memorization, but how do I practice that sort of thing, just by playing constantly? It feels like I could be improving faster than I currently am.

In regards to materials, what do you think are the most important resources that are worth going out and getting? Any names in particular?

Thank you all in advance.

I think this site is great for explaining the tactics and basic checkmating patterns:

http://www.chesstactics.org/

For practicing tactics, yes games help, but also there are a number of tactics trainers on the internet e.g. http://chesstempo.com , and plenty of puzzle books.

Also, there are study plans here: http://www.chess.com/article/view/study-plan-directory

But the videos require membership.