Choose a 15-inch monitor rather than a 14-inch. (For desktop publishing and graphics, a 17-inch monitor is even better).
------------------
The monitor should have a flat screen (FST)
------------------
Make sure it has a dot pitch of .28mm or less (preferably .26mm).
------------------
Digital controls are preferable to manual ones.
------------------
Ask to see the monitor working before you buy:
*Check it's in focus across the whole screen.
*Check the image is stable (doesn't flicker). It should be able to support at least 72hz vertical refresh rate at any resolution.
*The image should be able to fill the whole viewable screen area.
*On a 17in monitor, the viewable image should measure not less than 15.5 inches diagonally; 13.5 inches for a 15-inch monitor; 12.5 inches for a 14-inch; and so on.