Right I have taught myself to use .css in order to create tables to create a structure in which my data can go. Is css the industry standard?

I have come across problems with other browsers than IE and wondering if its more hassle than its worth?

I'll certainly go along with it being a hassle... But, yes, it is worth it! Especially as its really the only way you'll truly be able to obtain cross-browser compatibility. And CSS is the industry standard...

This may be a bit about semantics but many people learn CSS and try to do away with tables.

But yes, CSS is the way to go, and while it is a pain to use at times (imagine multi-columns et al), is well worth the trouble, particularly the level of control you get that is difficult or nonexistent with other methods.