Warning: The world of competitive cosplay can be a treacherous one. Don't say we didn't warn you.
Decide on a character. Any character. Just please, for the love of all things good, don't be a generic Link from Most Terrible Cosplay Decisions.
Study the art of the masters. Look up to The Cosplay Greats for inspiration.
Remember, practice makes perfect. And by perfect, we mean not getting laughed at by your peers for wearing a poorly made Terrible Cosplay Choice.
May the fabric of the universe be with you.