On a table of 10 people, stick to playing premium hands while the blinds are small. AA, KK, QQ, or AK and AQ suited or off suit, maybe AJ and A10 also (in a one night tournament you cant afford to bin these hands, although in a multiple day tournament you would). The later you act in a hand is a big advantage. Play tight in early position, slightly looser in late position when there have been all folds in front of you.
As the numbers drop and you reach the final table, once there are 5 people left any hand becomes playable. But bear in mind, more than half of all poker hands turned over are won on a high card. Its a big advantage to have, so if someone puts you all in, short of having a pair in your pocket, I'd be reluctant to play any hand lacking an ace, even KQ.
In terms of other players, dont watch all of them at once. In your first game, maybe choose the players to your left and right to watch. Get used to watching them, and it'll become second nature.
