Did I accidentally damage my CPU during my first build?

First, check if anything lights up when you power it on. Many issues can cause a PC not to boot, and it's often due to something simple like incorrect connections or power switches. It's rare that you've damaged the CPU itself.

Overtightening the cooler is usually not a common issue. It's more important to tighten screws gradually in a circular pattern rather than cranking one all the way down first. Also, make sure the CPU auxiliary power cable is connected to the motherboard—that's crucial for power.

Sometimes, the initial boot can take several minutes while the BIOS runs checks. Make sure you're patient and let it finish that process. Check if fans are spinning or if there are any lights on—especially at the power connectors at the motherboard, double-check to ensure they’re correctly connected.

Don't forget to confirm that all your cables are secured correctly. I had an issue where two nearly identical one-pin cables were swapped, which caused my build not to power up as expected. Just a small mix-up like that can keep a PC from booting!

Consider posting a picture of your setup along with the full specs. Fellow builders can offer better guidance when they see what you're working with. It's essential to share what you've installed.