Mysql, PHP questions

[iceman2g]

I understand that Mysql is a database and that php is a programming language. But how do I create php files in windows. When i type code windows saves it as a text file. Also where can I learn the basics of creating a php site. I want to create a site similar to this one (similar in the sense that i'm aimimg for a online pc site with maybe a little bit of online shopping capabilty). Be forewared I have no previous experience with php and have a brief knowledge of html. The problem I can see myself having with php is knowing and remembering what does what.

Please help I am available on msn. [e-mail]

[laserlight]

I think a more viable alternative would be for you to look around for a professional developer (or perhaps both a programmer and a designer) to help you develop your website.

You could learn PHP yourself, but unless you have prior programming knowledge, be prepared to see your website in development for at least a year, and judging from your current skill set, it might take 2-3 years.

If you pay someone else to do it, you can then utilise your current skill set (hardware knowledge?) more effectively.

[iceman2g]

Well i'm in no hurry. I'd pay for it to be build but being as I want to learn php this would be a good learning experience. My sister has experience with c++ so i'd count on her for a little help.

[laserlight]

ok then, I'll start by answering your questions:

But how do I create php files in windows.

Open a text editor, and start typing :p
PHP code is just text that happens to be written according to a set of rules.

When i type code windows saves it as a text file.

Actually, your text editor (e.g. notepad) saves it as a text file (probably with a .txt extension)
In some text editors, you should be able to change the extension to .php
Conversely, you could make the change outside the text editor.

Also where can I learn the basics of creating a php site.

Borrow a book from the local library, or search the Internet, especially the Web.
You should also visit php.net
The PHP Manual can be found there as well.
Since you're using MS Windows, download the .chm version of the PHP Manual.

Be forewared I have no previous experience with php and have a brief knowledge of html.

Learn HTML first.
Places to learn HTML include w3schools.com.
There's also the HTML 4.01 Specification, which makes for a good read after you have a good grasp of HTML.

[iceman2g]

Ok so far i've been reading up, so as to get a gain a understanding of basic html. But I can't seem to figure something out. In this portion of the lesson I can't seem to understand "The Anchor Tag and the Name Attribute". I've tryed messing with it but can't seem to get it to do anything. Can someone explain this to me and what it basically does.

BTW laserlight you've been a great help so far thank you so very much.