Watercolor advice

So I am starting to dabble in painting, and got some watercolor paint. But I don't know how I am supposed to actually use it. I tried painting with it by mixing it with water, but I don't know if I need to let each layer dry before continuing on because it seems to mix together. I ended up using it more like acrylic paint instead. lol.

My goal would be to paint backgrounds of Star Wars planets or scenes in the future.

If you have any tips or advice for using watercolors correctly, please let me know. I can use any help. I don't know anyone who paints with watercolor. Thank you!