How long should it take to learn CSS?

Question

I don't want to master it but I need to be able to figure out how to apply this css-menu to my website: http://www.grc.com/menu2/invitro.htm

Also I am migrating from table based design to css with xhtml 1.0 doctype. No prior programming other than a little basic and a tiny but of javascrip cut and paste.

I have a couple books but I have been staring at them for weeks. Some don't tell the whole picture when you consider cross-browser compatibility.

I'm thinking of designing for IE 5.x and later compatibility by coding for firefox then fixing the bugs.

any thoughts?

Answer 1

If you wanted to you can use a css editor. But I say on average 2 to 3 weeks to lear it. I think editors like top style help a lot so you do not have to memorize attributes.

Answer 2

CSS as a concept is quite easy to grasp. You will be able to start using it in about a day or so. But as you use it more, you will begin to standardize on certain abstractions, and you will become more and more proficient. Buying a book on CSS, is an overkill, and might even discourage you. Ideally you should just look up a tutorial on the web. Use a web app editor like Dreamweaver or Aptana to help with the different values and attributes.

The fundamental problem CSS aims to solve is the separation of presentation code from the logic or content. It also allows one place to make all your modifications instead of having it spread throughout your HTML page. Within a week or two, you will suddenly hit this enlightenment phase :-) Table-based design is still a valid option.

Cross-browser support is an on-going issue, IE 7 should smooth a few wrinkles. My experience is, code for Firefox first, thats the more demanding browser. IE is more of a superset.

Answer 3

DON'T DO IT!

Never start by designing for Internet Explorer. It is the worst at following standards. Start with Firefox or Safari, then tweak to get IE to work.

The TWO BIGGEST issues you will find in CSS are:

1. IE thinks the width of a

Answer 4

You might find learning CSS quite easy and maye easier than HTML, javascript or a language such as PHP. Here are a few sites that may help you along:

http://www.w3.org/Style/CSS/
http://www.w3schools.com/css/default.asp

The best way in my opinion is to find a site or a book that includes solid examples of its use. I have always found it easier to actully do it than read it. The only way I learned what I have about PHP.

Michael D.
Supreme Center Hosting
http://www.supremecenterhosting.com

Answer 5

It shouldnt take long. I got the basics down in about 2-3 days. http://www.w3schools.com helps a lot