A # of questions

[Darkskys]

Hey, I'm just now starting to use PHP, but I'm finding it all really confusing, its not like HTML where there's really one way to do it.
There's tons of different PHP programs out there
Post-nuke
PHP-nuke
xoops

I know these are all different versions of the coding that you upload onto your website, that you obiviously can edit. My questions are;
Does using PHP mean that your website has that forum look to it automatically? With showing the most recent posts, members online, news in forum boxes down the center, shoutboxes and surveys along the side? I really dislike the idea of this style of website for my particular page.
Also, can you somehow impliment normal webpage themes into PHP?
If so.. someone PLEASE give me some resources on how to do this. I want a cool looking theme, and dont want just the forum looking boxes all over the place. I mostly want PHP for the easy navigation purposes.
I want my structure to be somewhat like this
Music > Bands > Bios
Bands > Tours > By Location
> Lyrics > By Album
> Lyrics > By Song Name
Music > Tours > By Location
> Tours > By Band


Does that make sense? Like a tree almost.. but I just want it all accessable
Wow I'm confusing myself! =D I should just stick with HTML..
Any help/suggestions/links would be more than appreciated.
Thanks
~Nik

[stuart]

Hi,

One thing you should be aware of is that PHP is a language and not a set of pre-built applications. You are free to use the scripting language PHP to do your own thing with. An other thing to be aware of is the page look and site structure is still html and graphics!!! so you could really design a whole website with html and just incorporate PHP to parts of the site that need Server Scripts to run, for example dynamic content!!

I think reading a basic PHP book would be a great place to start. Have a look at our 'PHP Books' section or check your local book store. Im certain you will gain a lot from reading a book before you try and use PHP in your websites.

Best of luck and happy new year,
Stuart

Ahhhh Okay awesome, so PHP isn't exactly coding that takes over HTML.. lol Thanks, Yes I should go look at some books today at the bookstore, because most sites I've seen have no graphic examples. I so learn better when they show examples and images with the codes and what they do.
Thanks for the advice, I really like this place I'll be back when I know a little bit more. lol
Happy New Year
~Nik