as a noob, you need all of them. Polygons will get you started and in lots of cases end up as your finished model. Nurbs/patch modelling is more of an advanced modelling technique that works best if your using a polygon or subdivision referance model to start from, then patch it out in Nurbs to reduce geometry and speed up your scene. Learn to work with all 3 modelling forms. I cannot stress that enough. they are all stand alone and co-dependant based on what you what your final outcome to be and how much work you are willing to do. and by all means, dont be afraid to mix them (ie. Polygon or sub D body with nurbs clothes, polygon head with nurbs eyes and hair, or even the rare sub'd head with nurbs body. I've seen that one done.)

PS. sorry i took so long to reply to your post.