Played the French but lost horribly. How do I improve?

I have some ideas but I'd like everyone's input! Nd7 instead of Ne4 I think was better, and I needed to get c5 in before I did. Thanks!

Step 1) take the pawn on e4 on move 5.

Step 2) closing down the position ,while having your bad bishop bad, although you have 2 knigths.

Step 3) Study the plans in this positions a bit more.

ne4 is a sideline I think nd7 then a quick c5 is better

Yes. I think Nd7 and play the queenside. You open your king too soon, with all pieces on the back rank.

When there's a hanging center pawn, you generally should take it. Here, white gets the pawn back, but black still has a great game after taking e4.

silman has an old book on the french he said Nxe4 is good as a surprise weapon.