If you are just starting out, you probably don't want to apply for a bunch of cards, that
require manufactured spend anyway, at this point. IMO apply for one or 2, sign up for www.creditkarma.com and see what happens to your score. Go slow , its easy to get greedy in this hobby! I suggest , you have a clear plan , on what you want to do with points. I also would recommend, you stay away from hotel points earning cards, unless
you have specific goal for an upcoming stay. Your best bet are flexible points, that can be converted, or just straight cash. Barclay's Arrival card with 40000 points bonus is a great card , that is not hyped enough , for some reason.I suggest , you check Creditkarma.com and if your score there is around 750, apply for 2 cards in this order:
1)Barclay's arrival
2)Chase sapphire preferred
Your minimum spend is 4000 dollars in 3 months, easily done with your normal expenses.