Starting a saltwater aquarium doesn’t have to be complicated. The 90/10 Method simplifies reefing by focusing on the 10% of actions that produce 90% of long-term success. Rather than chasing every gadget or theory, this approach gives you a clear, proven path from day one. Begin by choosing a tank in the “Goldilocks zone” — around 40–75 gallons for the best balance of stability and simplicity. Use dry rock and sand to create a functional aquascape, install a reliable heater, return pump, and light, and start the nitrogen cycle with pure RODI water and quality salt mix. Once stable, add a small cleanup crew, then hardy fish and corals slowly. The 90/10 Method teaches you exactly when and how to take each step, removing the guesswork that causes most new reefers to fail. With this method, you’ll spend less time fighting problems and more time enjoying a thriving, beautiful saltwater reef.