Civ & build order for a noob?

I need to beat (or at least give a fight) some of my friends this sunday. They are way more experienced than I am. I'll be hosting so I was wondering if you guys could help me with some pointers for me to learn.

• Civilization
• Map
• Build order
• Important hotkeys
• Anything else I might not be thinking of?

I want to get good, but I'd really appreciate if you guys would point me in the right track for "starter mode"

THANKS!