You can use either option. From act, click on edit at the top and choose preferences. Once there you can choose either synchronize or in the general tab under default locations, choose synchronize. Having read through the instructions it does sound rather complicated this way. I would choose the straight through synch under the synchronization tab. If you need any help on the matter, I suggest you create an account with them at www.act.com (it's free) and go to support/technical support pages. I am new to act as well but for all of my issues they have been quite helpful there.
Good luck!
Mike