The first step is to have a solid understanding of how a pin tumbler lock actually works. Going in and feeling for something isnt going to open most locks.
Stainbl, a member here, made some wonderful animations, they almost look life like. Anyone who watches them will instantly know what needs to be done inside a lock in order to pick it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wtl2hmHZCLw&feature=watch_responseIn case an explanation is needed, after watching it read the next paragraph.
go watch it now.. no peeking before hand..
.. ok, so what you saw was a key inserting into a lock, moving the key pins up, which moved the driver pins out of the way, a shear line was created, and the plug could turn freely, because none of the driver pins or the key pins were in the way to stop it. The key does this for us all at once, and provides a nice handle (the bow of the key) so we can turn the plug. With picking, we use a pick to lift the pins to the correct height, and at the same time we use a tension wrench (turning tool) to start rotating the plug a little, which makes the pins stay up where you lifted them because the sidewalls the pins ride against are now adding some friction because the plug and lock body are not aligned, and the pins stay up. You move your pick back and fourth inside a lock lifting the pins a little and hopefully setting them. Once all the driver pins are all pushed out of the plug, the pressing on the wrench will allow you to open the lock, by either turning the plug 90, 180, or 360 degrees.
As to what you're feeling for, that will come with time, first the need to understand the basic mechanics is the most important thing to focus on.
Squelchtone
