The title is a little misleading and sort of broad. Tactics are a MAJOR factor of the game, considerably just as important as the end game, or positional play. To strictly put one over the other is the wrong way. A balance of these aspects is perfect as it creates a well-rounded player who's good in every part of a chess game. Clickbait title, but I do agree with OP's original statement on #1, as just doing 'more tactics' will not significantly improve your game, and you must also improve your skills on the other aspects as well.
'To strictly put one over the other is the wrong way. A balance of these aspects is perfect ...'
'strictly' and 'balance'.
'priority' versus 'strictly'.
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Can beginners navigate through the pitfalls within development of their chess?
Many do. With or without coaching.
But it might take a lot of personal experience on one's own to learn how to better do that navigation.
Or even to define it. There's no 'one way'.
The title is a little misleading and sort of broad. Tactics are a MAJOR factor of the game, considerably just as important as the end game, or positional play. To strictly put one over the other is the wrong way. A balance of these aspects is perfect as it creates a well-rounded player who's good in every part of a chess game. Clickbait title, but I do agree with OP's original statement on #1, as just doing 'more tactics' will not significantly improve your game, and you must also improve your skills on the other aspects as well.