Sprouting Confusion

I have some confusion regarding the sprouting of nuts and seeds.

1. Why do we need to sprout? What is the nutritional value of sprouted vs. simply raw?

2. Can nuts and seeds be consumed raw without sprouting?

3. How labor-intensive is sprouting? As a college student preparing to begin a raw lifestyle this semester, sprouting seems (at first-ish glance) to be a little too much for me to handle.

4. Is it necessary when first starting out raw to sprout?

5. What do I need to begin sprouting? Are there special appliances?

Thank you guys so much for your help. I have been devouring hundreds of threads on this board and learning so much.