There are several comments below that suggest not using tidyverse because "base R" is the foundation for everything.

I think it is important to use tidyverse because of the many quirks, surprises, and inconsistencies in base R. It would be helpful if others share their reasoning, or at least point to their favorite blog explanation, so that beginners can understand the problems they will face.

Unfortunately 5 minutes of Googleing failed a to produce a reference for me --- the start of some advanced R book that begins by asking "do you need to read this?" and showing examples whose results are predicted incorrectly by most people. Perhaps another user can provide the info.

* Reference to good HN thread: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=20362626

* Particularly pointed notes on base R problems: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=20363806