Hi Robeana
In the beginning don't try and fiddle with the settings , just too complicated to start off with
Go on to sketchuptexture.com and download their presettings ie visopt.
Import this into your settings and start from there.
If the above is still confusing let me know and we take it a bit slower.
I know how you feel , I am very much a beginner as well but after 6 months worth
of frustration I might help you to avoid my mistakes.
Let me know