Quick question:

What's the best beginner-friendly way to test an amp? I know that when I bought my starter-kit, the people in the shop tested the equipment to make sure it worked properly, but this time I'd prefer to test it myself if possible. Should I just hit some random strings and hope for the best or try playing bits of some of the songs I'm learning? Which option would be the best?

Sorry if I seem like an idiot. I just want to make sure I get the best possible idea of how the amp sounds when I test it :)