http://boards.cannabis.com/basic-gro...-dankness.html
If you need more details, check out the FAQ link at the top of this page, then browse the grow FAQs.

As far as strain, that's a personal choice.

I'd avoid a pure sativa or an outdoor strain indoors for a beginner. Maybe a fast maturing strain like early girl in order to get more grow cycles in less time, to help you learn quickly.