Is it really necessary to take a course before getting into trading?
no need for private lessons or lessons or anything. most importantly you have a mentor or professional trader ready to help you, and also you need to practice independently studying in trading forums to increase knowledge about trading. because in trading the most important thing is basic understanding, and learning can continue slowly
Forums are really useful if you already know the basics since there are a lot of information about trading in that place which could help you building your strategy or tweaking your existing strategy. Also you could able be found a mentor that will help you. Private lessons is not necessary but if you do have spare money then i think it could be useful but only take those legit and established one