1. The fan leaves are the plants nutrient storehouse. it's best to leave them be.

2. Looks ok to me.

3. Control your electrical cords, keep the lights as close to the plants as possible without burning 'em.

4. If you start reading now, I'm sure you can find shitloads of flowering techniques. What lights are you going to use. (or what bulbs, if using the shop-fluorescents)

5. Yes, you can top during LST. Just don't over-do it.

6. The more you learn and understand...the better the possible oucome.
Seal all light leaks, give plenty of air circulation, vent the heat, keep 'em off the cold floor, get good nutes, don't let others know about your grow, and read, read, read.