Thanks RonMaggie, I think you are doing just fine.
I've been in the hobby for 20 years and have 2 tanks running, and I use API test kits all the time. The other kits like Red Sea, Salifert and others are not really any more accurate than API. They do show results in finer scales, but that doesn't make them more accurate.
The algae you are getting now is probably diatoms which will be a fine covering on the glass and sand. Just scrape it off or blow it off with a turkey baster. In time, usually 2 to 4 weeks it will slow down and grow much less. It's kind of a bloom and as it uses up it food in the tank it will grow less.
Take your time, keep asking questions, good luck and have fun with it.