Grind type?

Extra hollow? Near wedge? Which do you prefer and why? And which is best for a newb?

I feel a half-hollow or thereabouts is great for a new shaver. Not as fragile, instant feedback and good edge retention.
The old 'modern grind' wedges, like Case Red imp 132's, are good for beginners as well, JMO

I learned to shave using full hollow razors but I prefer a 1/4 or 1/2 hollow now. I always do three passes with one ATG. I prefer the weight and thicker grind of the blade.

1/4 to half hollow for me but I have several fills I like very much. Starting out half hollow Dovo is a great razor.

Which day? I have no real defined preference on grind. I have quite a few razors and it changes all the time. I may be in the mood for tho or that. In the beginning however you should probably try to stick with the same and keep the variables to the hand and not the tools as much as you can. There are some very subtle differences with shaving with one versus the other, and they are easier to deal with after your general technique s fairly down pat. I have to say that I more often than not choose a half hollow, to a wedge. When you get into the extra hollow and singing edge they are fairly noisy and some like it and some don't.

I like any grind really, but as for each grind I like the smaller near wedges. 6/8 or less. Any bigger just seems to be too much metal for my taste. Full to extra hollow small to medium sizes, but the larger ones aren't bad and 1/2 to 1/4 in almost any size. I still remember the first time I shaved with something other than full hollow and I wasn't even sure I was shaving since it was alot quieter of a shave. Have to be careful with the quiet ones since you might use too much pressure thinking you aren't even shaving. Either way each grind gives a different experience of shaving. I ended up wanting to try them all.

It seems a common story. Start out with thin hollows, go to wedges full-out. Bigger razors. Hollows, back to regular-sized hollows. Damn, those wedges are comfy!
Like Rez sez, as you get to enjoying them all, will you see. Big fun, variety! :D