Know HTML and CSS - what to learn next?

[HansAndersen]

I have learned the basics of HTML and CSS, but in what direction should I move now?

I was thinking ASP.NET, but then I heard a lot about PHP/MySQL (which somebody means is the future - especially something about Lavarel).

What would you do in my situation?

[Beverleyh]

We don't know what your situation is; your interests, skill/level, available time, or job prospects in your area, so it is impossible to advise on your next steps. Also, you might want to think about speciality; Do you want to specialise in one particular area or have a more general knowledge in several? Only you know the answers to these questions.

If you need careers advice, maybe you could arrange to speak to an adviser at your local job centre/college/school?

If you think you'd like to learn ASP or PHP/MySQL, because you're interested in those areas, go for it. There's nothing stopping you from taking on a few taster courses until you find something you really like, and then specialising in that.

If you're basing your decision on popularity, try Googling "popular web languages/disciplines".

If you're basing your decision on job prospects, try researching annual government figures and case-studies on work sectors/fields/industries - how have stats changed? What is rising or falling?. You could also look at education; exam results and curriculum trends will indicate where the government is trying to direct youth interest. Apprenticeship vacancies can also be another good indicator - were bum-on-seats are needed in classrooms now usually points to projected job growth in X area in a few years time.

[HansAndersen]

Hi Beverleyh,

Thanks for your answer - I will definately look into it!

Where did you start your programming career?

[Beverleyh]

Me? I started out in the early 2000s editing/authoring CDs and DVDs for fun (transferring old home videos from VHS to DVD), then making hobby websites, which progressed into brochure-style websites for local sports clubs. Then I went back to college to study Business and Internet Technologies, which lead to full-time employment as a web technician in local government; developing and managing school websites (and their other web-based systems) :)

[Ripsaw]

Good advice Beverleyh. I've recently found myself thrown into the deep end of the pool with website design and have had to learn HTML and CSS (the basics) fast! I admit that I've developed quite a taste for it. But my natural flair leaves much to be desired ;)

Websites such as Dynamic Drive, plus your works on your personal website, coupled with the uplifting support from this forum to date, are inspiring me to move into the field professionally.

I raise a glass to you all and thank you for sharing your expertise. :D