[fhirzall]

Don't feel bad about using jQuery or any other library. These libraries have been built for re-use. Once you get more familiar with the basics and build a few apps, you can start looking into the actual libraries and figuring out how they work.

Think about it this way, you're driving a car but you have no idea how the engine works and that's OK!

As for asking questions on the various tech sites, you shouldn't feel bad about asking questions - these sites were created for that specific purpose. You're actually helping other programmers that might search for the same issue later on.

My only advice would be to hone your search techniques to be able to find answers faster. Mostly everything that involves basic web apps has been answered in one form or another. If you run into a problem with something, just note the issue and move on to the next part of the web app!

[marcamillion]

Thnx for the encouragement fhirzall.

The truth is, a funny thing has started happening. The more I used jQuery and the more I solved some problems, is the more I understood javascript better - which was a bit strange at first. I have had a few 'epiphany' moments.

Your analogy about the car makes total sense, especially for what I am trying to do.

Your point about my questions helping other programmers is also very true and prescient.

This is why I love HN, because I can get good, heartfelt feedback about issues I am dealing with in the moment.

Thanks again.

[stakent]

I'd like to add: pick technologies/libraries/frameworks which have enough active users to ask most of your questions in advance. Looking for already egsisting answers to your questions is much faster than asking questions and waiting for somebody's answer. There may be no answer at all.