Main idea is to set it to a range higher than what you are expecting to read, unless it is auto-ranging. Analog meters (with a needle) are often better for some tests like intermittants, and they are more rugged electrically than digital meters, important for sparky- motory type stuff.
Most cheap meters have poor probes/test leads, too short and with points not sharp enough to penetrate varnish and corrosion.
I like probes that can accept screw-on alligator clips, very handy and safer.
Mark S.