re: How Many Tools?

WOW, this subject is a rabbit hole that keeps getting deeper & deeper the more I think about it.

I think what RyanGi says; "I’m not qualified to speak on this, but I’d think your basic tool kit would depend heavily on what your primary area of interest is. A wood carver would need different tools than a furniture maker, etc.", sums up my thoughts fairly well.

I believe that the final objective needs to be defined first, is it "fine furniture" or simply utilitarian furniture?, or is it furniture at all.
 
The recommended tools will obviously need to be selected for achieving the final objectives, but starting with the most basic of tools to permit manipulating wood; cutting (a saw), shaping - to include making holes (drill and/or chisel), and finishing (sand paper or any sharp edge for scraping), further tool selection would be to achieve the desired effect. This is based on starting with boards from a store, not with a log.

Measuring and marking may not be needed, unless the final piece needs to fit a predetermined space. Parts can be use to mark other mating parts, such as tail boards held against pin boards, then a pencil would help.

I think I'm over thinking this, so let me finish by saying get the tools you need to do the job. Sorry I've rambled on like this.