There are two major approaches to learning HTML (or indeed any kind of code language). The first might be called an “application centric” approach: learning a particular program (such as DreamWeaver) and how to create code in its context, using the tools the application provides.

As I discussed, there are multiple problems with that approach. I prefer an “application agnostic, code-centric” strategy: learning how to code XHTML in the simplest environment possible, focusing on the code, rather than the application. Once code mastery has been achieved, you can then export your knowledge to any application you wish, using the helpful features of more advanced programs to enhance your work and speed up the development process.

For that reason, I prefer the simplest text editor possible: on OS X, TextEdit, and under Windows, (note: Notepad, not WordPad). There are problems and limitations with both applications, as well as issues in transferring files between them, that prevent either program from being recommended for professional use: but for learning, they are very useful tools.

It is important to understand that both Windows and OS X preserve preferences on a per user basis, not system-wide. That is, if you move to another machine, or log in under a different name, you will have to repeat the steps that I will show for each application. In addition, all of these applications will want to save files in the Documents folder appropriate to the OS by default. As we learn, we will be making files and then throwing them away, or archiving them; for clarity and use of use, I suggest saving to the Desktop of the OS instead.

(A note to more experienced users: I acknowledge that there are many other fine text editors out there. I have deliberately chosen text editors that are available to everyone with a generic installation of Windows or OS X).