Thanks gladi8er and wanderer.

Four 2M X=beams touching end-to-end. With the 1st and 4th perpendicular is sufficient to enclose a table. two roof tiles of your choosing viola crafting bench.

I hate to say it, but if figuring these things isn't an interesting challenge this game probably isn't for you.

First of all look at your mini map in upper right corner, you will notice a small arrow in the lower left corner... that is your wind direction... you want to place your bench and build walls and roof in such a way that the wind is blocked... here is an example of a basic structure I usually set up to protect a workbench...

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2728865181

You can also look at the particles in the air zipping past which will also show you the wind direction... just remember to make sure the roof over the top completely protects the workbench overhead and make sure the wind is blocked by walls.

As far as getting cold.... the answer is so terribly obvious I cant tell if this post is serious or not but FIRE provides heat... build a fire and if it is placed indoors make sure you build a chimney/ vent to allow the smoke to escape or else you will choke and get damaged OR build the fire directly outside (the rain will put the fire out so be aware of that) and If you are near a fire you will be able to stay warm and if you have a bed you can sleep which passes time to morning.

New player as well, however, Odins ravens do give you hints as to what to do if certain things arise such as being cold and what you need to build. they also let know things as you gather new and more material to help "guide" you. Best thing I have done so far is build an actual home and put everything inside of it. I created a specific cutout for my fire pit with an A-frame to allow airflow so you don't die of smoke inhalation (I learned the hard way on that one). Another thing to help you with getting through the night once your home is built is to build a bed somewhat close to the fire (the game will tell you, you need to be close to the fire to sleep). Other than that venture out through the day and comeback to your homestead at night. Seems to be working for me so far...

No offense but.. is this a troll attempt? I have trouble not getting triggered.