At the moment, I know how to code validly in XHTML and CSS and can mess around with div layers and floats, so positioning isn't a problem. However, I know nothing about PHP except the echo and include function. C++, Perl and MySql are aliens to me.

Overall, my logical side i.e. figures is fine, it's the colour coordination I have a problem with and presentation. I am so not creative

So if I want to build a site, is it worth getting something high-tech like Dreamwaver, or would I be better off just using my basic HTML and CSS skills and working with PHP includes?

If you are already comfortable with coding CSS and HTML by hand I wouldn't spend $400 on Dreamweaver. It's not going to teach you how to use PHP. And as far as creativity is concerned you can always start off with a free template from www.freecsstemplates.org and customize the style sheet.

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I am a big fan of using the best tools out there. Even if you are an expert in html and css, it doesn't hurt to have a development environment that makes your job easier. Whether Dreamweaver is that tool or not is a personal perference. For me, I use Visual Studio 2008 (by Microsoft) to do my development. For others, it may be an open source tool like Eclipse.

Bottom line, look for a tool that will assist you in your work, but I am a BIG fan of knowing the inner workings of how web development works before looking at using a tool to help you. Hope this helped

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