The tech tree

I seem to never know what to research next and I think this steps my game down quite a bit. I know a rule of thumb is belining the next science building but then don't you fall behind in military? Any tips to make the tech tree easier to use ?

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It seems like your main problem is not having a game plan. Think about what you want to do. Are you about to attack someone? Is someone threatening you with a big army? Do you want to get this wonder? etc. The research path should be obvious when you know what you want to do.

It is going to depend on what victory condition you are going for. The science building techs are great because so many victory conditions require you stay ahead on science. If you are trying to get a culture victory, you may want to beeline acoustics so you can get the Sistine Chapel or Archaeology so you can start building and filling museums. You need to plan ahead for the specific victory condition you want.

Beeline future tech and click next turn.