Best Way to Learn PHP

[TR123]

Hi,

Have any of you guys got any good tips for learning basis PHP (for complete coding newbies like me :) ) - Good books sites etc. I have been learning HTML and CSS and have a very basic knowledge, but would like some PHP knowledge to help with amending/building wordpress themes.

Thanks

[Kevin]

I bought a php book about 5 years ago called php advanced but I'd probably go with a newer book if I was you. I havent really studied it too much to be honest. Ive been a bit lazy that way. PHP is very similar to Java and C+ and because I had did them at uni years ago I could get by on that and figure out what I didnt know.

you should check out sitepoints books (http://www.sitepoint.com/books/)
you have the option of downloading the first few chapters in pdf format to see if you like it :)

[TR123]

Thanks Kevin. I have bought some of Sitepoint's CSS Books, some of which have been excellent. I will try downloading a couple of chapters of the PHP one and see if i blows my mind :)

[obsidian]

The Visual Quickstart Guide's are pretty good, too. Just search for them on Amazon or your favorite bookstore.

Just remember that one you read the book, you need to put it into application. You should start applying what you've learned as you learn, rather than waiting until you finish the whole book.

Codewalkers.com also has a ton of good guides.

[shypys]

If you're a completely new to coding(CSS, HTML dont count), I'd recommend going for Lynda.com's "PHP: Essential Video Training Course."

It's not as good as a good book, but considering you're new to coding, it'd be a lot less boring for you.

Another book I like(and would recommend) is Leaning PHP 5, David Sklar.

Just a word of caution, dont go for one of those Wrox books(the thick and red ones) - you'll just end up pulling your hair out in frustration.