This deserves some discussion....

[PUG]

I think this all started for beginners, so:
For beginners I would suggest that they set up a Quick Battle (QB) Meeting Engagement, being careful to note down all the parameters, against the computer program as the opponent using 1000 points, 20 turns, a medium map and letting the program pick the troops for both sides.
Play that game out and then set up the same game changing only the points to 2000.
If the beginner is comfortable with these 2 games then try the same for 3000 points. If not, then go for 1200 or 1500 points.
If you go with less than 1000 points then a small map may be better.
That should be a good enough exercise to let the beginner know what point level he should try to stick with until he becomes familiar with the terrain, map size, and other major differences.
As all the various parameters are intertwined and they do make a difference the beginner (or any player facing a stronger opponent) should ask to be the one to set up any QBs he plays and when doing so should use those parameters he feels most comfortable with.