This is something I actually know about. I lost 60lb in the last year and a half. Thing is, im not so conserned with a number on a scale. More with how I feel, how clothes fit, and body fat %.
I wish their was a magic formula, but the old "eat less, move more" mantra is correct. Also, do not only do cardio. You want to focus on losing fat, not weight. Have a solid resistance (lift weights) program in place and supplement it with cardio. If you have never lifted weights, stick to compound movements and do a fully body routine three times a week.
Do not listen to the "less weight more reps gets you cuttttttt!!!!!" garbage. Lift heavy. Your body will grow muscle quickly in the beginning, but that stops. That is why it takes so many years for experienced lifters to pack on muscle. It is also the reason they go to steroids. It cuts the time on gaining muscle down drastically.
In the first year, count everything you eat. I used a good old notebook and pencil. Keep track of the total caleries, fat, carb, and protien. You want a good macros split of 40/40/20. 40% of your calories should come from protein and carbs and the 20 from fat.
Their is so much more I can tell you guys its not even funny. This was just some quick things off the top of my head. I stopped myself from typing everything I wanted though. If anyone is interested I can share more or point you in the right direction to get FREE advice. You do not have to pay for anything with fitness. A gym membership and quality food should be the only monitary investments you make in your fat loss journey.