Train with Bernard after the prologue. Train train train. Master strikes is THE way to win fights. Also, lockpicking in this game is initially a pain in the ass when you arent used to it. But I promise it gets easier. Get your skill up by lockpicking easy locks, breaking lock picks still gives you exp. On console I use the simplified setting in game settings so you hold L1 to turn the lock and only have to use one joystick to pick. Getting the perk luck of the drunk makes it easier and with some practice you will get good. Once you have the hang of combat, enter the Rattay tourney that happens about once a week. Winning is easy once you are good at master striking, and you win 400 groschen and part of a really good armor set every time you win. Another easy way to get money is go find all the good dice. A few are in chests around the map, most require some lockpicking. But once you have a good set of cheating dice, you can win around 100 groschen in 99% of the games you play. With combat training, tourney armor, lockpicking, and money, you are ready to take on anything the game throws at you.