Is a personal trainer worth it for a beginner just starting out

Hi all, I am seriously considering getting into shape, but I am a complete novice when it comes to fitness and gym workouts. I have been thinking about hiring a personal trainer for a few sessions to get me started, but I am unsure if it is truly worth the investment for someone who is just beginning.

On one hand, I feel like I could really benefit from learning proper form and getting a customized plan to avoid injuries. On the other hand, it is quite expensive, and I am wondering if there are free resources or simpler ways to get the same foundational knowledge.

For those of you who started with a personal trainer, what was your experience like? Did it make a significant difference in your early progress and confidence? Or do you think a beginner can do just fine with online guides and forum advice? I would love to hear both sides of the argument.