A picture is worth a thousand words.
What I mean, is that you can learn how to use affiliate programs much more efficiently just by reviewing good examples.

I decided to start this section because I’d like to learn about making money online. While browsing affiliate marketing forums I’ve read a lot of recommendations and discussions related to this topic. When it comes to real life those suggestions are not so simple and sometimes don’t work, which is why many people fail at affiliate marketing. Of course, nothing will substitute your own experience, inspiration and creativity. However, good working examples can teach you very clear lessons of properly implemented marketing ideas and this learning will save you tons of time and money.
This is collection of valid examples of affiliate program implementations that seem to be appropriately developed and work successfully.