13 hours in - I’m hooked

Tried one of the earlier versions of this game nearly a decade ago, when I was young, when I wanted quick results, and when I wanted clear instructions

Now I’m older, I’ve learned patience, and this game is everything I’ve ever wanted in a game. I’ve been playing for thirteen hours, I’m still trying to understand how everything works, I’m throwing spaghetti at the walls and waiting to see what sticks.

Anyone who wants to chime in, I’d greatly appreciate your feedback, because I have some questions

-Administrative/diplomatic/military points - how can I get more. I didn’t get a military benefit from having 0/3 leaders. I wasted points to get 3 leaders, and it gave me no benefit.

I know I need them to research, but I also need them to upgrade my provinces- those seem more important, but then I’m behind.

• I feel like construction/production decreases my Econ? I sold crown lands and got lots of ducats, then started building 3 marketplaces. I went from +3/month to +0.59/month. Is it because if the buikding, or did something else happen that I’m not aware of (army upkeep is 0, even began to reduce fleet maintenance as I am not at war, forts are mothballed)

• I got the notice that i can make states. I’ve searched for videos, I’ve asked Google, I can’t find the ‘blue flag’ I’m supposed to be finding. How can I make a state?

Thank you in advance to anyone who wants to help an absolutely overwhelmed noob