I want to code - where do I begin?

After more-or-less stumbling into MODx a couple of weeks ago, I have developed an urge to get my hands dirty. The problem being that I lack experience.

While I’ve done some loose programming in a number of languages I haven’t touched PHP yet, mainly because I’ve always believed it is an ugly language syntax-wise compared to Java or C++. Still, I now find myself drawn to it. I also have no experience of developing in an OpenSource environment, with (I imagine) a wealth of more experienced people chipping in to give pointers or clean up newbie mistakes.
This is what I want.

I like clean syntax, data separation, consistent, self-documented code and so on. I am convinced that I, once the information is settling in, can be an asset to the community, but I would like someone to give me pointers. Preferably a patient and kindly mentor who can guide me and share his or her wealth of code-wisdom, but a shove in the general direction may be sufficient.

I realise it might sound like I’m bursting with enthusiasm, on the verge of being childish. I do feel greatly enthusiastic about this, and as long as that lasts I will do my utmost to contribute.

(plaintext: I’m looking for someone to help me get started or give me an easy project)

I’m also a C++ refugee. I’m still getting used to the dynamic variable typing and type juggling that PHP does (and the lack of true data hiding in classes if you want your code to be PHP4-compatible).

It’s also hard to get used to web programming where almost everything you’ve done goes away when the user switches pages or reloads a page.

The best way to get your feet wet is to create a web site of your own, see what the available MODx resources can do for you, and fill in the holes when you find things the available stuff won’t do.

See the site in my sig. for a general introduction to how MODx does things if you don’t know already.

You’ll find this forum pretty responsive when you have questions or run into trouble.

Why would I want my code to be PHP4 compatible? Might as well learn the new technology and backtrack if I need.

Yes, today my enthusiasm has cooled down a bit, allowing me to be more level headed about this whole thing. I decided I’ll do a minimalistic MODx install and try to build my site as I need it to be, creating snippets as I go. Purely for educational enjoyment
At the moment I’m clueless but in time you will all fall to your knees and hail me as your Messiah.. or if not that, at least pat me encouragingly on my head.

I checked out your site when I first came in contact with MODx. Really appreciated the introduction it gave me, thank you for sharing!

Guess this thread is more or less obsolete now. Still, if someone would take it upon themselves to offer guidance, I’d jump at the offer.

We are very friendly folk in this community, so feel free to ask help on the boards if you get stuck on something. Also if you use IRC, there’s #modx at freenode.

Warm welcome and have a happy time with us!

PS. Also, be sure to check out the Revolution branch if you want a peek into the future of MODx

Quote from: Mar at Nov 13, 2008, 10:34 AM

Why would I want my code to be PHP4 compatible? Might as well learn the new technology and backtrack if I need.

If the code is strictly for your own use, there’s no reason. But MODx is what it is because of the contributions of community members.
A lot of people are stuck on servers that only run PHP4 so it’s important that any contributed code run on PHP4.