I got a new book! =D

[Tommy Huynh]

safari.oreilly.com/0596005601

I got a 25% discount too. Hurray for knowing the cute cashier.

So, what do you all think of programming books? Or do you prefer online tutorials? Personally, I very much prefer having a book. There are lots of times when I'm not at a computer, and I can read on the go. Plus, it's fun getting remarks from people. Also, when doing the examples from the book that they show you, when I'm at a computer, I look at the book and type the code as I read the code (though, you can do the same with an online tutorial ) When I read something (on paper or something) and I replicate it by typing it myself, I find that I'm able to retain information better. Like when you're in class, taking notes, since you're writing the information down, you're retaining it, and will be able to regurgitate it better than if you were to just sit in the class listening.

Thoughts? Views?

anyone want a cookie?

[Virus]

I prefer books, because to get published, hey usually have to make sense. Online tutorials rarely make total sense. But on the other hand, online tutorials can easily be fixed if there's a goof up. If there's a typo in the book, you have to dish out another $25 if they make a crrected version.

I'm undecided.

[Tommy Huynh]

Funny how you mentioned typos and such. You made two yourself.

[Virus]

Whoops.

[Daniel]

I prefer printed books much more than online texts. Short things don't really matter, but I don't prefer to read extended things on a screen. There's something about a paper book that I like.

[dodz]

I learn more using online tutorials. And yes Tommy I'll have a cookie

[Ross]

I know I said I'd reply to this ages ago, but I've been busy

Really, it depends on the language, with other factors, as to what works best. The first aspect to consider is how quickly the language is evolving. If it's something that is changing every day and growing rapidly, then it's probably best to use online resources as they'll be more up to date. Even if a book is completely up to date and relevant at the time of writing, by the time it's been published and sold and you've started to read it, then already there would be irrelevant or incorrect information.
On the other hand, if you have a more complex language, one that it can be hard to get your head round then printed material may be better. You can either sit somewhere quietly reading it until you grasp what it is telling you or you can have right next to you for reference while actually using the language.

Personally, I've always used online material. Partly because it's cheaper ( ), partly because I've never known which book would be best to buy and partly because it's one less thing to fill up my desk

[raze]

over all find find books easier then on line because books are always there whats not to say that web site could close for some reason but the on website i have found good learning to code is w3schools

[Zach Sinclair]

I definitely learn better through books than I do online tutorials. Just today, I bought a new book from Barnes and Nobles The only thing that's a shame about buying them is they are so expensive... I know alot of effort goes into them, but $50 is more than alot of people are willing to spend on one. Anyway, the book I got is called...

"CSS Mastery: Advanced Web Standards Solutions" by Andy Budd