LOL Pen. IL2 is so much easier to grasp the basics of than MS FS.
To take off in IL2:
Press (I) to start engine
Apply Take Off Flaps (F x2)
Apply parking Brake (B press & hold)
Power up throttle (about 80-90%)
Release brake (take finger off B)
Apply left/right rudder (as required, easy if you have a twisty joystick)
Power up to 100%
As you accelerate, your tail will bounce, apply some forward tilt on the joystick to lift your tail.
When you hit approx 100kph, start to pull up.
When airbourne, retract gear & raise flaps (V x2)
You're now flying.
As for there being too many keys to remember, well, after awhile you learn what you need and even then during dogfights, you'll only need a fraction of what's available.
Failing that, the best way to learn is jump in with the lads. They'll get you airbourne very quickly. I think we had Jim in the air after the first couple of tries.