How do you begin learning about Java?

Question

Hi. I'm new to Java. I began taking a class at the local Community college where I live. I'm in my second term. It's a lot harder than the first. I'm not sure if I still understand the basics. I've written in COBOL, RPG I,II,III&IV, C, C++, C#, Pascal, Fortran, and Basic...along with a few other languages, but I find Java the hardest one to understand and program in.
Anyone out there got any advise as to how to begin?
I still feel very lost.

Answer 1

I am still learning myself. I have dabbled in programming since about 1976 when BASIC was available on the TRS-80 Model 1 but never did anything serious.
Start with the Java Tutorials at http://java.sun.com/docs/books/tutorial then look at other tutorials. There are some here:
<ul><li>Java Beginner Tutorial by
     Srini Appikatla</li>
<ul><li>[http://www.javabeginner.com/]</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul><li>Java Advanced Tutorials on
     ipodlot.com</li>
<ul><li>[http://www.ipodlot.com/javalearner/test/advanced.htm]</li>
</ul>
</ul>
I haven't worked through all of them but they look good so far.
Next, buy some books. I like "The Java Tutorial" Forth Edition. Yes, it is the same as the web site but it is easy to read sequencially. It doesn't cost much, used on Amazon.
Finally, actually write some code. It doesn't have to do much. Just play around. As you learn each new thing, try it out. It makes a big difference.