It's really not that confusing, because no matter what the book says you need to take the cues from your dog. If she can handle 10 minutes out, then try 15, if she can't handle that then go back to 10. You can repeat this process a few times an hour, so she doesn't end up in the crate that much. Go outside for 5 minutes. Play for 15. Then back in the crate for 20. Then go back outside...
I used an 18 or 22" wire crate with a divider, not the plastic pet taxis. Now Loki has a bigger 24" crate since he has kind of "graduated" crate training. We only use the crate now for time outs, when we are not home, and when he needs to be contained (like when I am mopping the floor). I found that the wire crate placed in a room like the kitchen gave him the opportunity to still feel like he was near us and not being punished. Now he has a fancy crate cover and his crate is in the corner of the living room, since it's rarely used. Sometimes he naps in it.
I am not an advocate of the pee pads. I realize not everyone can be home all day to let their dog out, but if she is left alone put her in an x-pen and quietly clean the mess when you get home. If you encourage the pee pad she will think it is OK to go in the house. She is peeing and pooping everywhere at this point because she cannot hold it. This will continue for a couple of weeks and then slowly improve. She may only be able to hold it for a few minutes once she feels she has to go, so you need to be able to take her out as soon as she starts sniffing, etc. They don't always give these signs, that's why it's best to crate train and only give freedom to an empty dog. Avoiding accidents is key. Loki has bells on the door that he rings when he needs to go outside.
Potty training is hard. It's a lot of work and it means giving her constant attention. Some people even tie a leash to their belt loop so they can monitor their puppy. Yes she will need to go outside a lot. Yes you will clean up a lot of messes. If you are going to outside train, you need to commit to it. I still have to take Loki out sometimes at 3am if he drinks too much before bed. It's really no big deal - at least he let me know he needed to go and didn't just pee on the carpet. And he loves his 3am belly rubs
