If I'm playing solo I take Archery since I prefer ranged combat and use a bow/crossbow well into mid-game. Also take Animal Tracker so meat is never an issue and I can keep my surroundings entirely chicken free. Dirty birds. The other two points might go into Pummel Pete, Miner 69er, Mother Lode, Master Chef, or Javelin Master depending on my mood. If I don't take Master Chef in the first set of 4, I usually have it within one or two levels. I try to get Bacon & Eggs going early and then rely on found recipes after that.
If I'm co-op, then the way our 2-person team breaks down I almost always get Archery, Miner 69er, Mother Lode, and Master Chef. He gets Animal Tracker and I cook all the stuff. I'm the miner of the team so I break a lot of rocks.
Sex Rex is under-appreciated in my play style. Only in my most recent game did I ever put more than 1 point into it. I should give it more respect.