New players are always confronted with the same challenge: they don't know how to raid in WoW Cataclysm since their skills are not enough to become good raiders yet. In fact even the simplest raids may look extremely hard, especially for classes such as the Paladin, Druid, and Shaman who may be asked to shift specs and totally alter their playing style. However, if you are patient and flexible, you will manage to earn a permanent spot in the raid. Keep in mind that certain hybrid classes such as the DK or Druid are considered to be more effective as far as resistance is concerned, while Shamans might be suitable for support in one fight and work as off healers in another fight.
Other classes like the Rogue, Hunter, Warlock and Mage don't require to change your playing style too much. The downsize here is that you will have to change specs to unlock certain abilities that you will need in specific situations. This demands more effective spell rotations and concentration on improving the DPS.
As soon as the fight begins during a raid, you'll almost always have a set position to work on. You're not going to be tanking for one trash mob, then DPS for the next and then Healing on a boss. But, between bosses or instances as a whole, you will find that the needs of your raid party change and that is when you may need to switch. Here are some tips you will definitely find helpful, especially if you are just starting with WoW Cataclysm:
1. Try to join a like-minded group of players that will share the same goals. This will help both you and the group to reach them more easily and quickly.
2. Patience is a virtue they say. Don't expect any fast results. And this is especially true if you're a new player. Try and try again until you finally reach your goal. And eventually, you will.
3. Make a little internet research before starting out a new instance. Try to find tips and tricks. This will only take a couple of minutes and it could save you from a lot of trouble.
4. Seek the help of experts. Use guides and addons that will boost your raiding capabilities. There are both free and paid options. But to be honest, paid guides and addons can actually give you a good head start compared to your opponents who will probably use any free tool available on the internet.
If you are just starting, remember to keep these tips at the back of your mind throughout your whole gaming experience. You will find out that learning how to raid in WoW Cataclysm is fun, as a game should be.