if you know what kind of rice you're using: basmati, brown rice, the mixed reds, white, etc., wild rice (really not rice), short grain, long grain, risotto, etc.........it doesn't hurt to take a few minutes to look it up on the internet for cooking times........as a rule most take 15-20 minutes with brown rice taking longer......
My rule of thumb that works for me, is to bring the water, salt, butter, to a boil and then throw in the rice, stir with a fork, bring back to a boil, put a lid on it, and lower the heat to simmer........then depending on the type of rice.......that's how long you keep it under the lid........no peeping until the time is up........pretty much works for me........traditional rice cookers are for traditional rices......20 minutes........not brown rice unless it has that feature.......and all of you novices..........go for it and if you screw up so what........it's a learning process......if you don't practice you don't succeed........if you're with good friends, roomie, mate, etc., they'll love you for trying........remember Bridgette Jones and her blue rice???