What’s a recent pickup you’re most?

As a complete noob when it comes to collecting Pokémon, I'm realising that this can be both an exciting, addictive, and costly journey, and so I was wondering what things I should or shouldn't be aware of ? For example, should I stick to collecting one set like Pitch Black, or is it ok to collect across random sets, and just go for specific types of Pokémon? It would be great to get your top tips, your dos and don'ts, and anything else that might help me on my quest? Thanks so much, and look forward to learning from you all.

Hello everyone! I'm doing a master set of Growlithe and Arcanine. Do you know any very unique cards that I might not have seen yet? For example unique Staff Promos or even cameo's (also from other TCG's like Topps) If someone's doing the same, let me know if you need help or insight in my collection :)

With all the current gripes people have with PSA, how is everyone feeling about CCIC for Chinese Pokémon cards? I know PSA is still universally preferred globally, but CCIC slabs are cheaper, clearer, and their Perfect 10s are highly respected and backed by Chinese government to fight counterfeit . Do you think CCIC will become the standard for Chinese cards in the long term?