The idle mixture screw(s) sets the mixture of fuel and air during idle RPM; the idle circuit is in effect only when idling. Once RPM increases above idle, the idle mixture screws are no longer in play.
Single barrel carburetors will have one idle mixture screw while 2 barrel and 4 barrel carbs usually have 2 idle mixture screws. The common exception is the Mercarb 2-barrel marine carburetor, which has one idle mixture screw located in the center of the flange.
Turning the idle mixture screws clockwise (in) leans the idle mixture, when turned all the way it the engine should cut out. Turning the idle mixture screws counter clockwise (out) richens the mixture.
For Rochester Quadrajets pick up an idle mixture adjusting tool at most auto parts stores. The tool bends which will make adjusting easier.
Clean the existing screws by buffing them carefully to remove residue. Inspect the tip and thread carefully for grooves. Replace any screw that shows signs of wear or damage.
When assembling the carburetor, turn the idle mixture screws in all the way, gently seat, then turn it out about 1 1/2 turns. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN, YOU'LL DAMAGE THE SCREW.
Bring the engine up to operating temperature.
Make sure the choke valve is completely open.
You may have to rev the engine slightly so that the fast idle cam moves to the idle position.
Adjust the idle to specification.
There are a couple of ways to adjust the idle mixture.
Hook the vacuum meter to one of the vacuum ports on the intake, or the carburetor.
Take turns with each idle mixture screw.
Turn each screw out a bit for a start (maybe 1 turn).
Turn each screw in 1/4 of a turn and wait for a second for the vacuum meter to catch up.