observing your opponent

[JackSevenSuited]

I'm just wondering how other players go about making observations on their opponents (betting patterns and tells) Basically how you would go about analyzing a tell or betting pattern and using the information you extracted to play optimally against that opponent. I know the answer seems obvious, you observe and remember. However i am really having trouble with this part of my game.
I know the answer may seem obvious to some but i hope you can look at the situation from my position (been playing under a year) and truly attempt to help me in some way. I'm still learning and i'd really appreciate any suggestions.