First off, don't ask to join a faction right away. It makes you look weak, and if you get invited to a faction, its probably a desperate faction thats not that good.

Before you continue, you have to make some choices. Do you want to be a loner or a team member? If so, would you be in charge or just a follower? Would you like to be feared? Or respected? Or just stay silent and sneaky? Focus on team or alone right now.

Being a loner.

If you choose to be alone, still make a faction and claim land for protection. Just set up a small base with a few chests for what you need. Stay silent for now.

Joining a team.

This proccess is a bit harder, as it can be hard to get into a faction. You might want to create one yourself, and start recruiting. If you create a faction and recruit sucsessfully then you've done the hardest part. Stay silent well gaining strength.

Setting up a base.

Each server is a little different. If the server supports raids, make it hidden and protected. Perhaps underground? Underwater and sky castles are good options too. Don't get too ambitious. Just get what you need.

Gather your resources.

Go mining. Get some iron first. Thats important. Do not attack yet, but make sure you have a sword ready for defence. Make armour, but most importantly, make an iron pick. Go mining for diamonds. When you have those make full amour and a sword. Enchant if possible. Now you are ready.

More coming soon in additional updates; for now i will go back to my server where i am playing and winning