Starting indoor herb garden, No idea what I'm doing help please?

I just want to start a small one for cooking. I'm thinking basil, rosemary and a few others. I have a gardening book but I would love some experienced advice. Its a small apartment so they have to grow small. How big should they be when I get them? should I just start from seeds?? Also what kind of soil or plant food should I get. I don't want this to get to expensive. Are Terra cota pots the right thing to grow in? Any other questions or advice you think would help please say!!