Q about distributor (initial startup/break-in)

[Mrturner1]

Hey guys, another question for my new engine build. I'm running spark plug wires now, and I got the distributor in. I'm wondering how the distributor should be turned on initial startup. I installed the cam straight up, no degree wheel stuff this time, and the distributor is facing straight forward with the #1 and #8 wires facing straight forward. I'll take a couple pics too

First question: do you guys do your initial startup with the timing set at a particular spot?

Second question: when standing in front of the truck looking at the engine with 1,3,5,7 on my right and 2,4,6,8 on my left, what does clockwise and counter clockwise do to the timing, as in advance/retard?

Thanks guys for the help. As you can tell it's my very first time doing a rebuild or even an intake manifold for that matter so go easy on me lol

Matt