Hello and welcome to TFP! The best way? The TFP way of course. But you need a proper test kit and to read the basics of pool care to really understand. With a little time and the right test kit, you can do it. Links are below in my signature (se Vital Links). Thanks for posting. Let us know if you have any questions.
Welcome Dew Man. You found the spot with well over 200k members and an untold # of quiet lurkers. Its grows everyday and wouldn't be if it wasn't easy and cheap. The ABCs that Pat linked to above seem like alot at first but you'll catch on in no time. Read up on the pool school. Have some Dew and let the caffeine juice up your brain. Read it again and post any questions (there are specific forums to get specific answers from the people who know those areas best). Then process it all, have some more Go-juice and it will start to register.
There is the search function in the upper right corner, hit the G button for google yo find better results. Use it to look up how to fill in your signature. Knowing the details of your pool will help the pros to not have to first ask questions about your questions. Its frustrating for you and them.
Welcome to TFP! For a wealth of pool care information please check out our free Pool School. If you are in need of specific help then we encourage you to Register and ask us here in the forum!