What would be the best resource to start learning Visual Basic?

Question

Ok, the only programming languages I know at this point are COBAL and RPG. The only problem though is I only would use them WAY back in college for my studies. It has been SEVERAL years ago before I had to program anything in the two languages (my job now did not match my college degree). Anyway, since it has been so long ago, I remember the basic theories of programming, but would need to pretty much start from scratch (even though Visual Basic is NOTHING like these dinosaur programs). I am very knowledgeable about computer theory, so I have the tools in my brain to learn, but I would just have to know where to start.

Answer 1

Definitively getting a compiler would be the first step. Learning programming languages is much easier when it's hands on. Microsoft has many resources for vbasic including starter kits and tutorials. I think they even have a free compiler.

http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/vbasic/default.aspx

Answer 2

Visual basic is real simple. You don't have to learn the language at first. Just look into some Tutorials then you will automatically learn. Ofc you need to learn some advanced stuff but that's after you mastered the basic foundation.

Answer 3

I would go do some searching online for some tutorials.

You can also find some sample programs that have extra comments to let you know what each thing is doing - you can use these to get your first few programs started.

Since you already know how to program, all you need to do is learn how to set up forms and stuff in visual.

Answer 4

Believe it or not, the "Dummies" book is actually a good start --
"Visual Basic for Dummies".

As for a starter program, VB5 or VB6 can be purchased very cheap. You don't need to rush into VB.net or later versions. VB5 or 6 are great versions to learn on.

Answer 5

I would start with a visual studio express edition, and then get the source examples.