Hi GREtaker25,
Even I'm a beginner. I have started recently. First I'm doing the high frequency words from Barron's. Later I'm doing Princeton review hit parade. After that I'm doing 3500 words from Barron's. Simultaneously doing maths for daily 2hrs. At present i'm studying daily 4-5hrs, but should increase it to 6-8hrs daily as i'm giving GRE in march2011.
Regarding flashcards: Categorise words into 3 groups. 1: words you know. 2:words you sort of know, and 3: words you don't know. Make flashcards for words you sort of know. Once you are perfect with words you know and words you sort of know, then move to words you don't know. Include antonyms in your flashcards.
Regarding RC's, even I should learn. When I know about it I'll let you know. If you get to know earlier then reply me. I will be more thankful.
Hope these suggestions help you.:)