Posted by Russ Rose on 01/04/07 00:54

"marcia" <marcia_gregory@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1167844705.355972.5190@s34g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Thank you Russ,
>
> Actually I've worked with SQL very limited though, as well as Oracle
> and Java, again awhile ago and limited. And I have a very logical
> mind. I'm confident that I will get it, but would love some direction.
> Do you have a particular spot on Google where you can get all of this
> information?

Since you have a beginning there, search for Thinking in Java, a book
generously offered free by the author. This gives an excellent description
of object oriented programming.

For .Net the MSDN library is enormous and free.
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx

Most beginners find VB easier to learn, but if you know any C type languages
(like Java) C# will seem much more familiar. Definitely go with the 2005
version of Visual Studio if possible. Earlier versions are less than
optimum...
M$ very generously offers free versions for beginners
http://msdn.microsoft.com/vstudio/express/
but plan on paying for at least the Pro edition if (and when) you intend
more than hobby development.

SQL Server ships with Books Online which is also available in the library.
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms130214.aspx

There are plenty of generic SQL syntax primers, wikipedia being a good start
(for any subject) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SQL

Enjoy!

>
> I really appreciate it.
>
> Thanks,
> Marcia
> Russ Rose wrote:
>> "marcia" <marcia_gregory@yahoo.com> wrote in message
>> news:1167782815.964484.34060@i12g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
>> > Does anyone know the best way to become proficient in SQL/.Net
>> > development. I'm interested in, the fastest way and cheapest way, but
>> > at the same time I'd like to develop real skills. Any suggestions?
>> > Let's say I'm starting from scratch (not exactly but would like to know
>> > anyway).
>> >
>> > Thank you,
>> >
>>
>> Define the "scratch" your are starting from?
>>
>> Do you already know any programming language well? (i.e. do you
>> understand
>> variables, looping, branching, function calls, etc...)
>>
>> Do you understand object oriented programming?
>>
>> Do you have a methodical or random mind?
>>
>> Short of a college education, the best way is to start with a simple
>> project
>> that interests you and have a willing mentor within shouting distance.
>> Next
>> best would be books, many of which are free online. The most valuable
>> tool
>> for me is Google. There is so much free sample code and explanations of
>> every possible programming methodology that buying books should not be
>> necessary. Newsgroups are good for answering specific questions or
>> references to general resources. Again, Google has indexed Usenet so if
>> there is a chance that your question has been asked you could save a lot
>> of
>> time doing a quick search first.
>

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