Gavelkind is perhaps the worst possible succession law ever invented by man. Finally, and perhaps most 'importantly', change succession laws. However, here are some nuances to be aware of. Most of the time, accomplishing this task is simple: get married make sure it's matrilineal if you're a womanhave children, and sit pretty as you hope your children aren't idiots. This is especially important if you're starting a custom character which has no dynasty to rely on.
Unlike other games both in Paradox's stable and outside of it which ties your fate to a nation, in CKIIyour fate is tied to a particular dynasty-and, more specifically, to one person at a time in that dynasty. Advice is correct as of the most recent patch with all expansions. To that end, my liege, whether you're a new count or a battle-scarred Crusader King, allow me to offer some of the most important tips for the novice and veteran alike. That means there's going to be potentially loads of new wannabe rulers needing advice on how to navigate this titan of a strategy game. To be truly successful in this game requires more than just careful logistical planning of troops and supplies: it also requires playing the great chess game of courtly life. The sweeping, human narratives and dramatic turns blur the line between RPG and Strategy without ever losing its 'Grand' pedigree.