subject: Where Can I Learn How To Use An Xml Editor [print this page] XML stands for Extensible Markup LanguageXML stands for Extensible Markup Language. This is a markup language somewhat comparable to HTML except that it serves a different purpose. Rather than being a language format for displaying text data, it is used for associating and transporting data. It deals with storage of information rather than the way information appears to users as it travels over the internet. While like html and other markup languages it uses tags, these are not preset and can be defined or invented by the user. It could thus in a sense be considered a syntax rather than a language.
Just as in the case of HTML there are XML editors available to make it easier to manipulate XML code. You may be wondering why you should learn to use an XML editor. The main reason is because XML code is an easier application to use in various types of situations, and an XML editor allows a user to approach the organizational tasks in these situations more efficiently. Though HTML, DHTML, Java, and many other languages could also be employed in these scenarios, use of XML makes the tasks much easier and more straightforward. And an XML editor in turn makes writing the XML code much more a much more manageable activity. Situations and applications where you would use XML and thus XML editors include displaying data in multiple formats, connecting databases with the internet, storing information in a way that is specially suited to reader requirements, and transferring processing tasks from web servers to clients.
There are a number of XML editors on the market. A few names to consider are Oxygen XML Editor, XML Editor, and XML Spy. Here are some places you might go about looking for instruction in using these and other editors:
Online tutorials
The internet is full of free tutorials that offer instruction in using virtually any kind of software you can think of. Simply perform a search on the name of the XML editor and the word "tutorial" and a number of options should come up. Or you can just search more generally on terms such as "XML editor tutorials." These tutorials may or may not be free - there will most likely be both included in the search results. Once you've found a tutorial simply follow the instructions and go through the lessons it teaches.
A site called W3 Schools is a very straightforward and easy to use resource for learning various programs and markup languages. This site cuts down on the verbiage and gets you straight to the basics. So this is a recommended resource especially for beginners.
YouTube
YouTube (and most likely other video sites) have lots of tutorial type videos. These may even come up right in Google or another search engine in the search results on your XML editor of choice. Videos can be helpful in that they have commentary and a whole visual element that more resembles a classroom situation.
Help and Getting Started Menus
Virtually all XML editors (and many other types of software) have Help and Getting Started menus that offer instruction in their use. Software manufacturers want to make sure that people that purchase their programs know how to use them, so they include fairly extensive guides. So simply buying or downloading a free XML editor and going through the included instructional material is a very good way of learning to use this software.
Classes
Finally, there are classes. You can take classes at community colleges, career schools, and ordinary colleges and universities in XML and XML editors. This should give you quite a thorough grasp of using these editors. This may be an option to consider especially if you are already a college student and spend a lot of time on campus. Why not take advantage of what your college has to offer and get some hands on, interactive, classroom instruction?
Good luck in your quest to learn to use an XML editor. Get into it and get some practice - before you k now it you'll be writing XML like a pro!
