Bucket and container gardening

I'm a true beginner, I've never planted anything in my life. I've been studying gardening for about 2 1/2 weeks and have learned a lot. I plan to do everything in buckets and containers. I want to try 3 methods to see what works best. 1st, one bucket with just soil and holes at the bottom of the container, I'm guessing this is the traditional way. Question, if I were to use nutrient water for hydroponics rather than just water, would my plants grow bigger and produce more? 2nd, 2 bucket self watering system, you know, dirt at the top water at the bottom. Question..... Pretty much the same as the first. 3rd, kratky hydroponics system.... I've taken a serious liken to this way but as a true beginner I think it would be wise for me to master the first 2 before trying this way.