Expert: Ed Westemeier - 1/1/2008

Question
I bought a Mr. Beer kit on the recommendation of a friend.  My original plan was to get good cheap beer, but over the past year, I've got to enjoying actually making it instead.  My problem is that I'm not so great.  I know what beers I do and don't like, but I don't know their qualities (ie bold, malty, balanced, etc.).  So when I go to buy the ingredients online I'm not sure what to get, and I don't have that much money with which to experiment.  Can you help?

Answer
The best approach is to go to howtobrew.com and start reading.
This is an excellent book that covers every aspect of home brewing for beginners, and the entire book is available free online.
When you get to Part 4 (Chapter 19) you'll find your question answered in great detail.
Enjoy!
Ed