To copy a range select Edit, Edit range, Copy or press Alt + C
'I do find thus software a bit clunky, its my first time with video editing'
Once you get familiar with the program you will not consider it clunky - this is a problem a lot of beginners have with any serious video editing software.
I would suggest you read the installed pdf manual thoroughly so you become familiar with the program - there is a lot of useful information in it. You can access it through Help, PDF manual menu
EDITED: Sorry, first version not quite right, to say the least!
This may help. In MEP 2013 you have found the three choices for objects in the media pool -- preview, insert some, or insert all -- which you pick using the three icons that appear at the left of the selected file entry. If you only want a section you move the '{' & '}' sliders under the preview window to define what will be imported. (I know you know this part but am including info for other readers.)
To add an object drag it from the preview window down onto a timeline. If you want to add over existing objects you must make a mode choice from the dropdown menu marked below BEFORE you define your import range. If you place the section onto a empty timeline it doesn't mater which insert mode is in effect.
Note: The import section method works for still images and audio samples as well though I have not yet found any mention of it in the PDF help file. The sound levels show when playing but didn't get captured.
Still images are previewed at their default duration and can only be made shorter. Their default play length can be set under 'Program settings' >> Video/'Audio' >> 'Standard display time'.
John suggestion of 'Edit' >> 'Edit range' is valid for ranges defined of material already on the timeline, not previews from the media pool.