I did a decent sized install with dselect, and then ran apt to update everything I had previously installed. Total disk space: 1.6 GB. I installed a rack of things though.
Just install the base package, then run apt-get install. Get X first, then grab a few WMs. 90% of the shit you'll see on the dselect screen you don't need (although it is not a bad idea to browse through it to see what certain packages can offer.) dselect is a pain in the ass. You'll run into all types of dependency/recommendational/conflict problems. It is better just to familiarize yourself with working in a command-line environment, acquainting yourself with apt, and building up from there.
EDIT: X comes on the base-install. I am drunk now and confused...
[ November 08, 2002: Message edited by: LorKorub / BOB ]