Beyond sliders: How to deeply study the logic behind post-processing (Highlights, Shadows, Color Theory)?

Hi everyone,

I’m an amateur photographer and I’ve been taking workshops to improve my composition and in-camera metering. However, I feel like I'm hitting a wall when it comes to editing and post-processing (Lightroom/Photoshop).

It’s one thing to know how to drag a slider, but it’s another thing entirely to know why you are moving it. I struggle to fully grasp the visual logic behind the basic panel—understanding exactly how Highlights and Shadows interact, why or when to balance Whites vs. Blacks, and how to apply color theory intentionally (like in the HSL panel or Color Grading) rather than just guessing.

I don’t want "quick fix" tutorials or YouTube videos that just teach "how to get X look in 5 minutes." I want to study the actual foundations of digital development, image science, and color perception.

For those who transitioned from just moving sliders to actually controlling the image with intent:

• What books, concepts, or resources helped you the most?
• Should I dive into Ansel Adams' Zone System applied to digital, or focus heavily on color theory books?
• Do you have any specific routine or exercises you used to isolate and master each tool?

I would love to hear your thoughts, study methods, and recommendations. Thanks in advance!