[mac5732]

In very beginning, research Mines. even 10 mines over your worlds will destroy AI, also put some on your worm-holes. Missles to level 2, level 3 is preferable & Point defense. Then your beam weapon Tech. When you get to level 2 or 3 in missles, put 1-2 small WP's on your planets. Upgrade them as you go. I also like to build extra storage facilities on poor or mediocore planets as in beginning you will produce more resources then you need, This saves them for rainy day, however some players don't. matter of preference. Expand as rapidly as possible but don't over extend. Also your research will depend on what traits you have. I.E. organic race - organic tech, etc. With AI go for trade then trade and Research treaties. This gives you extra income & research points. Send general message and a gift to AI to sweeten them up for treaties. I usually give them 1000 resources. Up to you.
In beginning of game I set Number of units over 5000. Your mines, ftrs, & other units count towards this and 1-2000 just isn't enough. I also use lots of ftrs, cheaper and can be effective on defense. Glaze enemy planets when found or show up in your system if at war. Don't colonize system that has AI colonies, at least not in beginning.

Just some ideas mac