Is spring startup easier if pool has been uncovered all winter

Pool was just installed last summer. I have been running the pump for 6-8 hours overnight. Maintaining a low level of FC through with 3 inch tablets. I did shock it once just because I thought it might be needed. I have been checking the chemistries with test strips and the have been in the ok range. I haven't been keeping good notes during the winter, but I have been just trying to keep it going at a minimum level of effort.

As I said, I am new to this. My understanding is that algae will not grow in cold water, so am I a step ahead of the game, or is my pool going to turn green as soon as the water starts to warm?

Also, I added CYA when we filled the pool but not since. I've read that the test strips fare very inaccurate for CYA. Is this true and if so, how do I know when to add more?