Hi, I have ZERO experience with PHP coding. I plan on building a website around the phpCollegeExchange script. This script is not exactly "newbie friendly." I've already downloaded the zip file, and it contains .php, .bak, and image files.

I plan to use Dreamweaver 8 to edit the php files. Is this all there is to editing the script? If not, what am I over looking?

That's akin to saying you just bought a new kitchen knife and plan to use a stove, thereafter asking if it is is ok to cook a Crab Risotto accompanied by Veal Medallions in a Brandy and Apple Reduction (fancy dish).

Coding is much like cooking! It takes study and practice, go get a good PHP book and read through it. Hacking through scripts, especially those unfriendly, is no way to treat its potential users. Think down the line, imagine you introduce a vulnerability or bug that could cost you your site or even worse, your user community's trust!

Try the Zend Certification study guide, it's definitely the maximum of the minimum of knowledge required.

HTH
Alex

Saeven puts it well, it is indeed like cooking. :cool:

A few things that will get you off to a good start:
-don't use dreamweaver for php. it acts as a 'go-between' between you and php code, and is not a good way to start out, imho.

-get html-kit (www.chami.com) is a wicked html editor that also recognizes php code. it's free too.

-Download, read and follow some very small scripts. 10-30 lines of code, to see how php reads and executes instructions. Things like mailers, password checker random number generator, etc... Once you understand the basics of how php works, adjusting larger scripts is not so hard.

-Stick php.net in your favourites, as it is a must-have if you are developing code, as it contains descriptions and examples of all the code used in php.

-Just like with cooks, different programmers have different styles and methods. Time and experience will tell you what works best for you

Cheers! :cool:

A book I used many moons ago was php bluepages. Not sure if it is still available but it was good. Wish I still had it sometimes for quick reference.