So I want to become a Web Designer. What do I have to know in terms of languages and programs. I know Photoshop is a must, along with HTML and CSS... but what else do I have to learn. I've tried this before (programming) and I just got so caught up with it and rushed everything. Now I need to set specific goals and know exactly what I need to learn.

I know basic PS and some HTML... I used to be decent at CSS but will probably have to start from scratch... Is there anything else important that I should learn? To design complete sites without the coding and functionality (if there is functionality).

HELP!

just html, css, and having an editing program.

HI i have learnt that: the harder a software program is to use = the more simple your website will look
the easier a software program is to use = the more complex looking your website will be

I'll just be using a simple editor for HTML/CSS. So I'm planning on learning to code everything by hand. I think the hardest task I have is memorizing all the tags, etc. Any specific sites I should look at?

learning to code everything by hand ? THERE are far more important things in life
This is easy and fun, i bought the trial version after i demoed it
http://www.wysiwygwebbuilder.com/


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learn by yourself.. its the best way tbh.

If I really wanted to use a wysiwyg... I would just use Dreamweaver... but I will never be content with myself and what I can achieve without having that specific program. I won't learn EVERYTHING... but I'll learn more than I need to be successful and then also use a reference.

I want to learn on my own... I've tried it before... but I get stuck at a certain point where I need assistance, mostly when attempting to learn php but I'm hoping HTML and CSS will be easier for me to learn!

Any tutorials/sites/suggestions?

I recommend using W3 Schools. They have various tutorials on how to learn HTML, CSS and many more.
Also, I suggest downloading free templates either from Zymic or Clan Templates and opening up the pages with Notepad, This shows what each section does and how it does it.

Regards, Valency.

I'm sorry if I didn't make this clear before... I know some HTML... I just haven't stuck with it and I'm trying to go back over it. I know how it works... I just can't do it. I'm trying to re-teach myself.

i still think that downloading a template (biggest you can fin) and messing arround with the codes to see the different effecs is a very good way to learn.
I never opened a book of html neither css and i think i am pretty good at it.

Designer ? which means designing stuff not coding if we want to use the correct definition of waht you ask... i think the best way is have art class The only place i learned was in the USA, i lived one year there and i could of choose 2 different classes i wanted... so i just picked Art, and i admit you get to know lots of stuff, how to hold a pen for example.. yes might sound stupid but.. hey... Anyways after a year i was doing some pretty good stuff and i think thats where i boosted my designing skills... actually its where it started.

Learn art... history of art can help, color shemes is important i guess to have your colors match, also i believe that if you want to kick ass you need to listen what it is asked, especialy if you are working for a client. Make sure you understand what he needs... its important.




In short, i totaly aree with iamandy, even tho the artistic skill needs some structur which you can learn best via a teacher aka at school.

Oh yea.. keep practice

@ Luke: Listen to Andy and MrTouz -- they're giving good advice on general design and art. While Valency's giving good advice on web designing...

I started html with downloading templates and editing them.

That is easiest way to start I think.

Ok my advice would be . Make a library of all the tags just for reference or for practical use. I for one have my own personal library of tags etc and do all my coding by hand. Been using notepad ++ also style studio . I do have dreamweaver but never had any use for it other than it offers a preview of your code which other more simplistic applications dont offer.

Aslo go from the basics . When coding think of it as a printer. What does a prinner do when it prints out the information on pieces of paper. It starts from the top works its way from left to right and finally makes it way to the bottom. Whilst coding. Try to follow that logic its easy and efficient.

Ok css is very easy to learn compared to the other coding languages. Html/xhtml is pretty easy to get a decent enough grip on. As i stated before making a personal tag reference would help you become a better coder. But dont just make a reference play about with the tags. Try to understand the capabilities the advantages and disadvantages of each and never GIVE UP!

Ok well as stated before go to http://w3schools.com/ . It has all the knowledge you need to know


As for design well its a question of have you got a talent to create things such as graphics icons etc digitally using software like Photoshop etc. If not then dont be put off. Knowledge is key but its what you do with the knowledge that defines great designs. For example. look for photoshop tutorials tutorialized.com. This is a great index site that houses great information. I personally used this in many occasions and would highly recommend this site. Dont think you can create good quality stuff straight away. It will take you a minimum a few months at least 2 month to figure out different techniques and even then you wont be a good designer. Practice the same techniques etc over and over again. This is how you learn. Or u fall asleep zzzzz . Also when designing never steal mimic or in any way breach copyright acts. Its a no go i am afraid. Originality is key. Also remember designing a site for a client can be a pain in the ass but remember that you must have good vision to interperate the clients vision of what he/she wants. Communication isa key element if you are looking to advance a into the designer/coder career

I really liked the video tutorials over at lynda.com

The html and css ones are especially well done. You can decide your own level, from the very basic 'intro. to html' to 'advanced CSS', then pause and replay at your own pace.