Evolve is very slow to "start". Furthermore, you will learn things as you go because some features aren't exactly explained on front.
Anyway, the idea is that when you complete a "cycle" you start again but you get some form of "boosters"
after you get enough boost, you can attempt to go for a further away ending.
(trying to keep spoilers to min)
first: the wiki is your best friend.
Second, read the beginner guide at least, you can skip the part for the The space age for now.