No problem! Usually, platformers have 100% sensitive player movement, so that would mean if you switch from left to right, it switches instantly. You could also take inspiration from platformers like Celeste for the character controller. And as for the first point, I completely understand. Usually I try to scope down to the point where I'm making a really small game with few levels completely based around a unique and fun mechanic, so I'm not spending time on things like art, and that's what has had the best results in the jams I've done.