First things First

[markspitz109]

New Pool Owner. 24 foot above ground. 52" wall. Holds 13,500 gal.
Water is being delivered in two days. In the past I have had my water tested at the local pool supply. They are unsavory people so I decided to have the chemicals delivered to my front door. What I need to know is what do I check and concentrate on first in regards to chemicals? PH? Alkalinity? etc.
What test method should I use? Reagent Strips? Drops? Which tests? Which companies test kits?
I have the Nature II cartridge. In short I need to know on a step by step basis what I need to do to maintain my water from the beginning and throughout the summer.
In the past it was taking a water sample to the pool supply and the machine calculates it but no more. I want to learn to do this on my own if that is possible.
Thanks

Mark