I cannot for the life of me figure out how to verify the downloaded ISO image using GPGtools as described here https://tails.boum.org/doc/get/verify_the_iso_image_using_the_command_line/index.en.html. It is worth noting that I am not exceptionally computer literate so if someone could take the time to explain tails installation step by step like I'm 5, it would be much appreciated!
Edit: And I did check the noobs subreddit. Was unable to find anything helpful to me.
You can not boot from a usb using a MAC. Sorry. The usb stick does not have the proper hardware to do it. You would have to format the stick using a special mac partition which would render the ISO useless.
Another option is for you to try rEfit. You can partition your mac to set aside a small section to install the Tails. Then when you start your MAC, you will get two options, Start MAC or "Windows" I think, even though it is TAILS.
Problem - if you use rEfit, you will not be able to use FileVault and full disk encryption which is baaaaaadddd. You hard drive could be removed from your mac and read using any other mac on Earth without Filevault.
What I recommend is to use full disk encryption with Filevault first. That will encrypt your MAC. Then you can download VirtualBox and install TAILS as a VM and use it normally that way.
If you want more info, just ask.