I shot 24p in 16x9 on an HVX 200 and am cutting with Final Cut Pro 5.1 on the intel imac. This is my first foray into editing.

I'm not sure what setup mode to use for capture and sequence, particularly since I've seen conflicting posts regarding 23.98 and 29.97.

The applicable drop-down options in the "Easy Setup" window are:
DV-NTSC
DV-NTSC 24p (23.98)
DV-NTSC 24p (23.98) Advanced Pulldown Removal
DV-NTSC Anamorphic

Obviously, the "advanced pulldown" is out since I didn't shoot 24pa, but the other options are each attractive.

I'm confused because I've read "24p is really 29.97" yet the FCP mode reads "24p (23.98)." Also, there's a 24p option, but not a 24p anamorphic option. A previous post mentioned clicking an "anamorphic" box, but that doesn't exist on FCP 5.1. What's my best option?

Feel free to employ patronizing tones and treat me like a baby - I've never done this before and want to do it right.

Did you shoot HD with the camera? If so, those are the WRONG easy setups. You need to look for DVDPRO HD 720p24, 720p30 and 720p60.

You need to know EXACTLY how the footage was shot. If 720p24 at 24PN, then you'd use the 720p24 setting. If 720p24 at 24P, then you need to know if you were using the 720p30 or 720p60 settings in the camera.

It wasn't in HD, it was in SD, so I don't think 720 applies... 480 24p, I guess.

I don't know if that obviates the 720p24 p30 or p60 discussion, or hopefully makes the setup options more clear, but thanks for your response, Shane...

Anyway, I'm still unsure what setting to use, and appreciate any help.

I'm actually wondering the exact same thing - mine doesn't show 24p anamorphic either and I was also wondering how others dealt with that.