/ic/ - Artwork/Critique

2 questions
1. How can I up my sketch game? People always comment that my sketching is too complicated and stiff and my lines are way too thick.

While others seem like they can just sketch contours and get it down decently?

see image, my drawing vs. more skilled.

2. I really could use some help in where to start in my learning of the basics.

I read the sticky and I dont think im at a level to attempt loomis because im so bad at drawing even basic shapes. So do you think Keys to drawings would be a better start or should I go straight to fun with a pencil?