The plug gives you a hole that the screw goes into. Just like the anchors you tried first. It allows the wall to support a lot more weight than it otherwise would. With plaster, brick, or drywall you need some type of plug. Wood is about the only thing you can screw into directly. Once you see the plugs, you'll understand. If you want to support something very heavy you need to screw into the studs behind the wall. Another thing you can pick up when you are there is some plaster repair. Ask the help desk what you can use. Some type of putty/paste and a cheap putty knife (plastic, under a buck). And bring in a piece of the plaster that fell off your wall. Show it to the paint dept. and get some matching paint. Get a small can of primer and prime first. That way you won't be stuck with loosing your deposit when you move. Plus you'll be less afraid to drill, knowing you can patch it back up. Ryobi has smaller battery drills. Go for the 18 volt one. Look at the different package deals they sell of these ryobi tools. The vacuum is underpowered but comes in handy in the car or just cleaning up the little dust from drilling. The reciprocating saw and jigsaw and even circular saw all work great. When the battery goes bad, just buy another tool that uses the same type of battery. Having two drills is great—one for the screwdriver bit and the other to drill with. Or one for the starter bit size and one to finish the hole.
Behr Premium Plus Enamel (Home Depot) A CR Best Buy. Prime first after patching. The color will match better. Buy a Purdy 1” paintbrush. Expensive but worth it. I think like $7. Make sure they give you some free stirrers (ask for extra). Water based paints you can simply wash your brush after use. Then put it back in cardboard wrap it came in to help retain its shape. Put paint can in open box when mixing and working. This will collect any spills. Have a wet cloth ready to mop up any drips.
