What to do when starting a game

So I’m sort of new to this game, but I have played in a few galaxies and I’m just wondering what to do at the start of the game. Should I focus on economy,industry or science? I always research Experimentation, is that good? Are there any strategies to us so I will get a head start but won’t be a major target for everyone else.

We could use a sticky for this sort of question. To start, I’d recommend reading:

Strategy Guide

and this thread: Strategy Discussion and then a bunch of other threads on here…

Don’t forget to chat everyone up :slight_smile: