Mammal- Everything is easier to learn when you hammer down the basics. I am pretty new to trials so I am no expert, but maybe I can offer some advice. Balancing and turning are pretty much the most crucial things in trials. What seems to happen is that beginners like us get so excited about learning the cool moves and we neglect the basics. Like most things in life, if the foundation is solid, the rest of the house is solid. I would maybe divy up your practice time like this:
Balance with the engine off in the yard or garage a couple hours a week.
While riding:
Turning practice (full lock figure 8's etc)- 40%
Logs and rocks (double blip etc)-20%
Climbing and descending hills-20%
Just riding and having fun (trying more advanced stuff like hopping)-20%
Something like that anyway. The better you are at turns the better you'll be in general. Good luck.