1)Quickdip strips I guess are ok for basic ammonia, nitrite. I prefer to use the Salifert line of tests for most things.
2) Never heard of it. Would have to research that.
3) Seems like Kaelini and Branch would work. In a 12g you will not need much rock. A couple of good peices of branch and you will have room for some corals and some open space for water flow.