Ok, no DW. But why not??

Simply use what you want. As long as the code ends up at an appropriate standard the end justifies the means.

On my first try on web development (way back 2001) I was using dreamweaver 4 and frontpage 97. I didnt actually learn HTML. why? because I was actually drawing it! not writing the codes/tags. Furthermore, you must be familiar with those GUI software and set it not to clutter your code. It adds extra tags and messes up your code.
When I tried notepad, I learned a lot. Now I can design a very complex layout, then slice it up by just using notepad++ (notepad with syntax highlighting see http://notepad-plus.sourceforge.net/).

It is an advantage. One example is, when you try to apply for a job and they got a hands-on test. Let them see how you code XHTML using pure notepad.

Originally Posted by LiquiMedia I didnt actually learn HTML. why? because I was actually drawing it! not writing the codes/tags. Furthermore, you must be familiar with those GUI software and set it not to clutter your code. It adds extra tags and messes up your code.

Interesting. I never had that problem and I've used Dreamweaver for about 10 years now. I have no problem in getting my code 100% valid. I now also hand code html & css and I use Dreamweaver. I could use notebook or a text editor if I wanted to, but I don't. Never known it to add extra tags or clutter my code. And I have never adjusted the settings to anything but what the standard is when its installed. I always check the code first before its finished so I really have no problem with DW personally.

Fact: Dreamweavers wysiwyg editor should be avoided.
Oppinion: Dreamweaver sometimes has strange habbits when uploading your files through the built-in ftp-transfer-app it's still great to work with imho.

well hakob i agree with you but not completely.. as far as the learning process is concern notepad is fine.. but DW is designed to assist the coders who develope more then hundred pages of a web..

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For Long coding, (like if I plan to write 1000+ lines of code) I use DW.

But for editing and short coding, I use Notepad++.

IMO, if you are not familiar with xHTML, CSS and Javascript and are trying to learn, I would not suggest using a Web IDE during your first steps. Once you are familiar with code behind web programming, I would then suggest picking up a web IDE to assist you working faster to get your projects done, especially when your projects get larger and more complex. Dreamweaver is a great editor for that effect (just using the code view). Another which was already mentioned was Notepad++ (which I use for quick opening of files). Another that I've not seen mentioned, which is my primary web IDE, is Aptana. Its a free/open source Web IDE that supports XHTML, CSS, Javascript as well as various popular Javascript libraries.

There have been some slight issues with program sluggishness, however anyone interested should consider checking it out!

I do not know why not Dreamweaver? If you understand very good your coding, Dreamweaver can only help you to finish in the best way your web design.If you are new to coding than you can use notepad++ to beeter understand your code,than after some time you can easily switch yourself to Dreamweaver!

No need to do not use Dreamweaver if you have it!

Dreamweaver is a good program if you know how to use it.

However, a plain but advanced editor like Notepad++ is also elemental

I use notepad..always have as im not sure DW existed back when I started, ive tried DW but its somtimes retarded how it will auto-fill in and close tags when somtimes you dont want to..

I would tell any beginner to use it though