I would first get a drop-based test kit--the 5-way that WalMart sells will get you started. It sells for around $15. (Actually at our WalMarts in Shreveport it sells for $12.97) You're on the right track--fill the pool, test the water, post your numbers, use the bleach calc to get you to 3 ppm at first. You need to have on hand some stabilizer (also called balancer or conditioner at WalMart--ingredient is cyanuric or isocyanuric acid), some generic bleach, and some borax and baking soda. That should get you started!

Janet