Amazing game! Here’s a few tips straight off the bat:
1) It’s hard (even on easy) so don’t be perturbed if you’re not getting that far in your first few runs. Use them to “learn the ropes”.
2) Pretty obvious but complete the tutorial to learn the basics.
3) Evasion stat is very useful. Acts a bit like an extra shield for your ship. It’s cheap to upgrade at the beginning and your crew members on Piloting and Engines will level up faster when you have upgraded your engines/evasion. It’s a win-win.
4) Try and buy a second shield early on. It’s super useful (similar to evasion).
5) Drone Control is useful, too. Getting a defence drone to defend your ship from missiles is key to your ongoing success (particularly in sectors 3 onwards).
Those are good tips to get you started. If you have anything specific to ask just shoot! Enjoy! 🙂