Just be careful not to use the skill points or SPECIAL options too excessively. If you max all your character's skills (which you're not supposed to be to do) if could prevent you from continuing on the next level-up. Usual advice: Save often.
Yeah usualy 9 across the board is fine same with 8 across the board.
not that way Lord, but more like force lock 100% so you don't break the lock
I never break the locks at all. Its rather easly to tell if you have found the right bit