How to handle reservoir, lubrication, and bedding for first Civic brake pads?

[Emily31]

I'm planning to do my first brake pad replacement on my 2017 Honda Civic this weekend, and I've watched a few tutorials, but I'm still nervous about getting it right. I've got the new pads, a C-clamp for the caliper piston, and the basic tools, but I'm unsure about a couple of specifics. For those who have done this job, what's the best way to handle the brake fluid reservoir when compressing the piston—should I open it or leave it closed? Also, how do you properly lubricate the caliper pins and pad clips without getting grease on the rotor or pad surfaces, and is there a specific break-in procedure for the new pads I should follow?