Learned XHTML and CSS, what now?

[Mr_Threepwood]

Ok recently I've been learning some web stuff, and I'm decent at using XHTML and CSS now. However, I'm confused where to go from here since it seems to me there are a lot of options. Based on some research I've come to the conclusion that it's probably best for me to look at JavaScript and PHP.

Ultimately I'd like to be able to maintain a site that is easily editable, and completely separates content from layout somehow. I'm not sure how this kind of thing is typically implemented though, so I'd appreciate any information on what anything to read to get me started.

I'm also somewhat confused on how some of the really professional sites are built, sites like http://www.thewitcher.com/community/, how do they manage things like their front page. They can't possibly have to manually insert every update by editing the actual files.

Bah there seems to be a big gap after you've learned the basics from where to go, could someone please point me in the right direction?

[dcmgwebguy]

Sounds like you are headed in the right direction. Check out the site you mention (right click and choose view source). You will see that the very example you are looking at is heavy into Javascript. Also, if you look for php you will find it, too. Look for files with .php rather than .html. You only get brief hints at it because it is server side but it could be quite extensive, too.

Just a couple thoughts for consideration. First, I recently saw a survey that showed a three to one advantage in becoming professionals in the field given to those who learned PHP first, then Javascript rather than the other way around. Interesting since I see so many recommendations to do Javascript first because it is "easier." I started with Javascript but found it less intuitive so switched. For me the PHP gives a good overall structure which helps me to understand Javascript.

Second, I see quite a few programmers suggesting their use of other languages is somehow on a higher level than common old open source PHP. Nothing against any others, but look at the job offers on this site and others. I have noticed a lot more PHP. And PHP will certainly continue to grow (I believe) while others come and go.

[felgall]

JavaScript and PHP are fairly similar in many ways so learning one makes learning the other easier. The advantage that JavaScript has is that you can test it in various browsers on your computer without needing to do anything more than install three or four different browsers while to test PHP without uploading it first requires installing a web server. The advantage that PHP has is that it produces the same results regardless of which browser you use..