Got my first CC (21) need help with utilization tips and building credit

Just got my first CC at 20 with a $2k CL. i have been reading a bunch of things about credit utilization all that jazz. i know this is probably one of the most repeated questions but i’m curious about a couple things

• should i pay off my balance BEFORE the statement date or pay off to where i’ve spent 20% of my CL (for utilization purposes? not sure how that works) then pay the rest after…
• I know that utilization doesn’t carry and it has no memory but staying in a 0-29% utilization range it DOES have a positive effect on my score right?
• my payments are due on the 24th which is the statement date or is that the due date (it doesn’t say so i am a bit confused

i’m obviously just planning on using this card as my debit so if i don’t have the money i won’t be spending it. but i am also going on vacation soon i do have money saved up and i think i might be spending around 1k on the trip. if i pay (600) before my statement closes would that show a 20% utilization then? instead of 50? I know micromanaging is bad and i don’t want to max out my card (im aiming not to lol) but would this work?

also any other tips or suggestions or anything abt cc i would really appreciate im a bit nervous but i’m generally really good with my money and i keep track of it well but any help would be appreciated : )