While it's true that jq's DSL has a bit of a learning curve, being able to try expressions and see immediate feedback can help immensely.
Here is a demo of a small script I wrote that shows jq results as you type using FZF: https://asciinema.org/a/349330 (link to script is in the description)
It also includes the ability to easily "bookmark" expressions and return to them so you don't have to worry about losing up an expression that's almost working to experiment with another one.
As a jq novice, I've personally found it to be super useful.
Here is a demo of a small script I wrote that shows jq results as you type using FZF: https://asciinema.org/a/349330 (link to script is in the description)
It also includes the ability to easily "bookmark" expressions and return to them so you don't have to worry about losing up an expression that's almost working to experiment with another one.
As a jq novice, I've personally found it to be super useful.