Need ideas to choose a large PC monitor

Hi everyone,
I am having a laptop and I use the same when I work from home. My work involves designing/reviewing the graphical schematics and hence I am feeling to get a large monitor so that I can do my job easily. Also large monitor helps me to type large mails/reports. Now, I am not very sure on what to check to select a perfect monitor (provide good resolution). Also, I want to know the best way to connect laptop to monitor (like HDMI etc.,) Please guide me to know how to choose a right one for my needs.
