Help for a database NOOB

Megahertza

I've just decided to intergrate Mysql into my site on my testing maching and I want to create a forum. My problem is that I don't know where to start. I'm using phpmyadmin to make the tables and I need a to know what tables I should make and what fields I should make.

Or, is there a another use for mysql that will lead to making a forum later on

planetsim

Easy dont run before you walk. If you dont know how to use MySQL i would advise you strongly to not make a forum. First learn SQL (Stuctured Query Language) its the language used for MySQL and many other databases systems out there.

I dont know any MySQL Tutorials (just MySQL) however there are some great books on the topic (i havent got any only looked through a couple).

I also suggest using a file based database system (no not SQLite) but using files to store data so you understand how the File Functions work before moving on to databases (this was the best advice I was ever given in PHP).

Also just a pointer, if you are going to ask how to do something e.g. What tables, fields etc your not going to get far. If you plan on latter making one view other forums out there, see how they work.

Your going to find that each one works different to the other as there is no set path in doing a task in programming.

Goodluck

Kudose

Check out SAMS Teach Yourself MySQL in 21 Days. ISBN 0-672-32392-3

It is a great book to learn MySQL 4.0 for business and "usual" work. i.e. It isnt the manuel, it teaches what you NEED to know.

Hope you figure things out.

Roger_Ramjet

Start here: http://www.sitepoint.com/books/phpmysql1/ you can download 4 chapters http://www.sitepoint.com/books/Kevs-php-mysql.pdf which really will get you started.

As to writing your own forum: What For? There are any number of scripts around already. look in sourceforge for one http://sourceforge.net/. Why reinvent the wheel?

To learn relational database design, which is what you are asking about then go down the library and get a book out and read it, no need to buy one. Relational databases are a generic subject that is implemented in mysql, access, oracle, informix, etc. Once you understand the form then you will understand 'normalisation' which is the process of analysis by which one arrives at the required table structure. There are no short cuts in any part of IT, only wankers think there are, but luckily for you learning relational databases is one of the easiest things to do, far easier than say cgi scripting.

Kudose

:glare:
CGI
:glare:

Roger_Ramjet

I agree 😕 CGI 😕