"PHP and MySQL by Example" written by Ellie Quigley is an excellent choice for individuals who are new to PHP and MySQL web programming. This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for beginners who have a basic understanding of HTML and are interested in delving into server-side scripting.
Quigley does an exceptional job of presenting the material in an easily comprehensible and succinct manner. The book begins with an introduction to fundamental PHP concepts such as variables, control structures, and functions. As readers progress through the chapters, Quigley gradually introduces more advanced topics like object-oriented programming and file handling. Each chapter contains numerous examples and exercises that reinforce the concepts being taught. This hands-on approach allows readers to actively engage with the material and solidify their understanding.
One notable feature of the book is the inclusion of a CD-ROM that contains all the necessary tools and source code to follow along with the examples. This allows readers to practice the concepts learned and experiment with different approaches. Additionally, the CD-ROM includes a bonus chapter on XML and its integration with PHP and MySQL, offering readers the opportunity to expand their knowledge beyond the main topics covered.
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Quigley's writing style is engaging and informative, making the book an enjoyable read. The author strikes a perfect balance between theoretical explanations and practical implementation, ensuring that readers not only gain a solid understanding of PHP and MySQL concepts but also learn how to effectively utilize them in real-world scenarios.
In summary, "PHP and MySQL by Example" is highly recommended for beginners seeking to learn PHP and MySQL web programming. The book's clear explanations, numerous examples, and practical exercises provide a strong foundation in these essential web development technologies. Whether you are starting from scratch or have some prior knowledge, this book is a valuable resource that will help you develop the skills needed to create interactive web applications.
What are readers saying?
The book "PHP and MySQL by Example" written by Ellie Quigley has garnered a variety of opinions from its readers. While some found the book to be informative and helpful, others felt it lacked depth and structure.
A number of reviewers praised the book for its clear and easy-to-understand explanations. They appreciated how the author introduced PHP and MySQL concepts, providing code examples that made it easier for beginners to follow along. The inclusion of a CD-ROM containing supplementary resources and code samples was also well-received.
However, some readers felt that the book did not offer in-depth explanations and failed to provide a comprehensive understanding of PHP and MySQL. They believed the examples were too simplistic and did not cover more complex topics. Additionally, the book's structure was criticized as disorganized, making it difficult to effectively retain the information.
A common criticism expressed by several readers was that the book felt outdated. As PHP and MySQL continue to evolve, some concepts and code examples in the book were considered outdated and no longer relevant. This led readers to conclude that the book would benefit from more frequent updates to stay up-to-date.
Despite the mixed reviews, many readers found the book valuable as a beginner's guide to PHP and MySQL. The hands-on approach and coding practice through provided examples were appreciated. However, experienced programmers may find the content too basic and lacking coverage of advanced topics.
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