Getting started with equipment, and need advice

[snyder1185]

I am starting over with the equipment I have. I, from lack of research, chose the wrong fish to go in my tank. I have taken the fish I original got back to the store I got them. First let me give a list of the equipment I have:
Aqua Tech 10 gallon tank
Aqua Tech 5/15 Power Filter (last post I incorrectly wrote 10/20)
a heater that keeps water between 75 and 80 degrees
Aqua Tech tropical fish large flake food
a bottle of Aqua Tech drops that make tap water safe for fish
a bottle of Aqua Tech drops that maintain water for fish and adds vitamins
My first question is how do I get the tank cycling before I add fish?
Then what fish do I need to get that will be compatible with my tank?
What do I need to feed those fish that I get?
And last, what do I need to do as far as the water goes to keep it clear and healthy for the fish that I get? How often do I need to change the tank water, and what can I put if anything in the water to keep it safe for the fish.
I know that is a lot of questions, but I have done a lot of research and found this to be the best place for info. Thanks for your help. I just want to do it the correct way.
PS
One more quick question. My water (even if i changed it once a week) would get cloudy and smell pretty bad. How do I prevent this?

 

[jamesrm]

Welcome to AA

From what I can quickly see, your going to need a few more items:

Most important, you need a freshwater test kit. You have almost no way of being able to check your cycle without knowing what you ammonia/nitrite/nitrate readings are. I use the "Freshwater Master Kit" from Aquarium Pharmaceuticals. WELL worth the investment.

You will also be well advised to get a Python. It will make all of your water changes a easy part of life, instead of something to be avoided.

The easiest way to get a tank to start its cycle is to grab some media from a friend with an established, HEALTHY fish tank already set up. Otherwise, search the forums for a fishless cycling guide. You basically add ammnonia until nitrites start to develope. There is also the Bio-Spira route.

Most tropical fish that would do well in a 10gal will be happy to eat your flake food.

As far as water changes, if your tank is already cycled when you add the fish, 25-50% water changes per week should be just fine, but that is why you will want that test kit, just to be on the safe side

I am not by far as "Pro" as the other members, but saw your post and had a few minutes Good luck!