Best weapon + styles to learn the "fundamentals" of MHGU?

As a World player (CB and LS main), I started my playthrough with Valor Longsword because it felt easy, but I find myself using the Valor Mode and GP as a crutch and not really learning much about the monsters themselves.

What are some good, simple weapons and styles to effectively learn the basics of GU? I want to get good at this game as I progress, not just good at abusing Valor LS, if that makes sense...