When a person gets up early for Selichot, he should first recite Birkot HaShachar, as well as Birkat HaTorah. Preferably, he should say Tikun Hasot before the Selichot. If there is only time for one-Selichot or Tikun Hasot- the Birkeh Yosef (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) rules that it is much better to say Tikun Hasot. This is also the opinion of the Kaf HaHaim. If one does say both, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) in Parashat Vayishlach (10) points out that he should skip the Vidui (confession) in the Tikun Hasot, as he is going to recite it shortly in the Selichot.
Daily Halacha
Selichot and Tikun Hasot
Lectured by Rabbi Eli Mansour