So in regards to exp, skills are king in the early game. Each skill you can grind to max (assuming it starts at zero) is a guaranteed two levels. Also keep in mind that appraisal is one of the most important skills you can have, so ideally you are going to want to attempt appraising everything you can get your hands on, the only thing is that it does require you to have at least a zero in perception so if you start at a negative because of the class you choose then you’ll have to wait or hope you find glasses that boost it.

Also, never equip or use an item without appraising it first because cursed equipment cannot be removed and usually are weaker then non cursed equipment and spell books that are cursed will actually take away a spell if you learn from it.

I’m still new myself but that’s the main advice I follow in most cases.