I'd use whatever tools you're most comfortable with.
I think you're either a "GUI, drag and drop things, etc", or a "Command line, text editor rules" person.
For PHP I like jedit personally, just a nice text/programmers editor, with syntax highlighting, open multiple files on tabs, etc etc. It does all I need.
Sounds like you have the right idea though. The nice thing about PHP is that you can start to use it when you like.
eg make a basic html page...
Code:
<html><head><title>Example #1</title></head>
<body>
Hello world!
</body>
</html>
(Save that as index.php),
then think to yourself "Hmm, it'd be cool to put the time in there as well
Code:
<html><head><title>Example #1</title></head>
<body>
Hello world! The unixtime is <?=time();?>
</body>
</html>
So you can start with a basic HTML website, and then start to add extra functionality and dynamism to it. Then add in some mysql as well and you're away.
Once you get to more complicated stuff you'll want to separate php into functions, different files, maybe use some oo design.
I'd say just start with html, then start integrating php into it, then add mysql.
Good luck, and welcome to the forum.
