help starting a reef

[randy123]

Ive kept fish for about a year now, and about 5 months ago I tried some soft corals. Now I want to try some real reefing. Due to the expense involved, I would rather learn my lessons the easy way,so I am hoping for any wisdom that others might share.

I have prepared by upgrading my lights to a 6bulb teklight, and my flow is up around 40x turnover. I have a skimmer that is rated for a system 2x as big as mine. My understanding is that I can have most SPS corals, provided that they are built up a little on the rock to ensure enough light is reaching them.

The main area for me that is a little muddy is nutrient dosing. What tests should I be running, and how often? And what is good to add? I am on instant ocean saltmix, so my understanding is that dosing is a must.

Also if anyone had any other random pointers, it would be appreciated.

Thanks!