I'm a complete noob and I need help

[Matt Lulek]

So I recently picked up a copy of Head First Java and it told me to install the JDK and some API document or whatever. I previously used the program Eclipse to write programs and now I do not know where to write, save, and compile java programs... Halp please Also, could someone ezplain what the JDK and API documents are for and how to use them?

[mike ryan]

Hi Matt,

take a look at this link , should answer most of your questions .

Mike

[Jesper de Jong]

Welcome to the Ranch. Some more useful links:

Oracle's Java Tutorials - try the Hello World tutorial to learn how to write your first application using a simple text editor and the Windows command prompt
Java SE Download page where you can download the JDK - check out the installation instructions
Java SE Documentation, where you can find the API documentation and other useful information

[Matt Bobrowski]

I'm actually in quite a similar situation. I got Head First Java as well and I'm wondering if I should run Java 6 or 7. The book says it's good for Java 5 or 6, but when I type "java -version" in my command prompt it indicates that I already have java 7. Any thoughts? Any info would be greatly appreciated

[fred rosenberger]

You are probably fine using 7.

[Stevens Miller]

I agree with fred. As a new Java programmer, it's unlikely you are going to run into any differences between 6 and 7 for a while, if ever. Java is constantly improving, so the problem you are asking about will be with you until Something Better shoves Java aside. For example, I have "Core Java, Vols. I & II, 8'th ed." on my desk. I wouldn't even think of sitting down to work on a Java program without having those books within arm's reach. But they're both about 6, with the next edition scheduled for release later this year. But I am using Java 7 now and wouldn't want to hold back on gaining from any of its improvements over 6, just so my books would match exactly.

Have fun. You're in for a heck of a ride.

[Matt Bobrowski]

Much appreciated Stevens and Fred! Really looking forward to getting into Java.