Mixing Salt for the First Time - Basic Questions

[Eb0la11]

Hey guys,

so Im going to mix the salt for my tank right now and Im just wondering what specific gravity am I aiming for? I seem to see 1.026 being the best but wanted to know some other peoples thoughts.

Also, whats the best way to do it. Basically i have a 165G RODI filled aquarium running with a 25G sump below it also full. So should I just dump a bunch of salt in the DT or should I slowly add it over time or put in like 80% of what I think I'll need then fine tune at the end? What's a good strategy?

Also, I have sand in the bottom of the tank if that makes a difference and the water is a little bit cloudy right now but not super cloudy. I dont think either of those things effect anything though but if they do let me know.