need help

[jasi osman]

hi all;
am new to java can any body help me start .??
i have many books ( coplete java2 cert. , core java2 volume 1, and can get many others from the library) .. but do not know how to stare as it is the first time for me to study anyyy programming language.
thanks

[Matthew Phillips]

I know it sounds a little cliche, but the best place to start is the beginning. If you would like to see reviews of books for beginners, then check outThe Bunkhouse.
If you run into any problems, this is the place to solve them. Check out the search feature and you will probably already find your question answered. If not, post it here.
After you get a few basic programs under you belt, check out The Cattle Drive. That is really helping me learn good programming habits. It is also a great confidence builder.
There are also some great tutorials here. Unfortunately, my favorite (CIS151) appears to be dead now, but there should be some other good ones there. I hope my suggestions get you started in the right direction.

[Fei Ng]

After reading the first few chapter on a beginner book. I think you should try some assignment. Try to program a small project. As you keep reading the book you might want to extend the features you learn from the book to the first project. And doing that till you finish the book. Usually beginner follow a pattern from easy to hard. For example, using int or char or String classes at the beginning and structure like vector , stack or queue later on. It is really important to have the basic down in your head!

and try the Cattle Drive (java college) forum.

[William Barnes]

I would suggest taking a class. Any class. One with real people and a teacher. Trying to teach yourself programming from a book, or the web, is not a good way of learning. If you already knew how to program and were just learning a new language than it would be fine. But since you know nothing at all about programming a class is the best start. If cost is a factor audit a class, ask the teacher if you can sit in.
Good luck.

[Ryan Helton]

I agree that taking a class is not a bad idea for anyone new to a complex subject such as programming. However, I've been "self teaching" myself for about 4 months now, and I think that, depending on what type of learner you are, it is possible to learn Java programming from reading all the good books you can get your hands on. I also check out a dozen or so Java websites on a regular basis. And of course read the forums here at the JavaRanch. I've found that even if I don't understand everything that people are talking about, it's a great way to introduce myself to new topics.
I look at learning Java as a fun hobby, not work. I suppose that probably helps!
Ryan