I was hoping someone here could recommend me a decent PHP book to learn from, starting with the basics. I know there are many great sources available online but I really need a book to read through. Thanks
Given that anything you do with PHP will more than likely involve MySQL in some way, you're best to look for something that covers or at least touches on both areas. I've recently read 'PHP 6 and MySQL 5 for Dynamic Web Sites: Visual QuickPro Guide' and found it to be pretty informative whilst giving practical examples that get you on the right track if you are tackling your own project. Having worked with asp previously I found the book pretty easy to follow, that said I'm sure a beginner will have no trouble either as it does start at the beginning. Hope that helps to point you in the right direction.
I disagree, mysql would have been incredibly difficult for me to learn if I didn't understand the concepts of programming that PHP teaches you. If you want to learn PHP I'd take a look at Tizag's PHP Tutorial - it is VERY good. http://www.tizag.com/phpT/ Its really only a basic introduction but it may save you $20 on a book if you find it isn't what you were looking for. I found it gave me the key to finally unlock freestyle programming where I could think up a concept and program it by myself. Just read slow and take your time!
I have a very basic understanding of PHP already and some mysql. Both are great recommendations. Thanks guys!
I learned by myself. If you want to do something, search how it's done on Google. Then try to do it yourself. One of the best way to learn is by trial and error. Sure it takes a lot of time but that way you learn what and what not to do. Good luck!
In my experience, you are right. Nothing beats hands on training. However, I'm going to have some spare time to do nothing so I'd really enjoy reading and then trying to apply what i've just read.
it's not useful to use books... it's better to start with learning of functions not the books... just download some easy script and try to figure out how it's done
There's no doubt this would help you to learn but you may have trouble recalling the knowledge at a later date. Perhaps you could start with a concept idea and try to code it yourself? A project will definitely touch on more areas and increase your knowledge as you will be using a variety of techniques and functions through necessity. As you get more comfortable with php you can add additional features to your project to build upon your knowledge. Another good thing about projects is that overall code will be your own work and you will have complete knowledge and understand of how it works. You'll even be able to recycle parts of the script later on for other projects, or look back on your work to solve future problems.