Beginner Here

[iamgian]

So I've decided to actually further my knowledge in the art of web design, problem is, I don't know where to start. I know a little bit of HTML and even less Java. Anybody have any suggested reading I could read over to get me started? I wanted to learn PHP but I quickly realized that I probably need to get better with the actual design of the webpage before I can start scripting with PHP. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

[NogDog]

Learn HTML and CSS, and try to learn it right. The tutorials at www.htmldog.com are pretty good for introductory to intermediate level stuff in each. While studying them, try to read and understand relevant parts of the HTML spec. (http://www.w3.org/TR/html4/) and the CSS spec (http://www.w3.org/TR/CSS21/) at the same time, as they are the ultimate references.

Check the "sticky" posts at the top of the HTML and CSS forums here for suggested references to help the learning process.

The HTML validator (http://validator.w3.org) and CSS Validator (http://jigsaw.w3.org/css-validator/) are your friends -- bookmark them now.

Realize that JavaScript and Java are two separate things, and most likely what you are referring to is JavaScript.

Browse these forums a lot! :) Check out sites like www.alistapart.com and www.quirksmode.com to see many of the issues that are faced by web developers and a lot of good solutions.

Never stop studying and learning, and keep practicing and trying new things. (A good prescription for life in general.)