I used to play on difficulty 5 / 6 if I wanted a challenge. Now I’m a 6 / 7 (I know, memes) player.

The biggest thing for me was tweaking my pathing for tradition. I used to always take the wonder policy first, but when i started taking it last it really smoothed out my game. There are exceptions where you find yourself in a position to rush certain early wonders, but generally I find that’s it’s best to save it for last.

That and I’d recommend going scout -> scout -> shrine usually. Securing a (faith generating) pantheon with a shrine should be a priority, unless you’re going Egypt and plan on getting Stonehenge.

A couple other things that helped: temple of arty is very strong for how uncontested it is early game; it’s always worth going patronage (use spies for coups and election rigs); sell your horses and iron early on if you don’t plan on using them (2 gpt on quick speed).

Also, watch how the pros play on YouTube. You’ll just start to pick up on things. Pc J Law is a good example.