Use all the tools at hand to learn new things.

• View source when ever you see something you like on the net. Not to copy but to see how others do it. Programming is such an individualized thing there are always tricks that are new to you.
• Get a good editor. For the purest notepad is great but there is no replacement for a true html/xhtml editor with auto-complete. It helps you to associate all of the elements available for a tag. Dream Weaver and Home Site are fantastic but there are also free ones available. Many will allow you to set up a 'project' or 'site' that will allow you to do your development, preview it locally, then make the ftp connection to publish your content.
• Set up your own development server (have many here). Everyone (common, you know it) has that old pc kicking around that would easily run some flavor of Linux. With a little research you could have your own Linux/Apache/MySQL/php (L.A.M.P.) server for development purposes. Then you can have fun, play, break but never endanger your live site.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions. I am always willing to help others in need with sample code or advise as are many others here. I don't claim to know everything but can always find an answer or example.
• Books, and forums, and more good books.

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Scott, K2ZS
http://www.k2zs.com