In this chapter, we explained how to add a database to the overall web development picture. Our database engine of choice is MySQL, as it is open source, has a PHP programming interface, and is available on all platforms. We introduced another programming language, SQL, and then explained how this fits into the MySQL/PHP picture.

To create and manage a database, including adding initial data to your tables, we talked about using phpMyAdmin, a great tool that we recommend adding to your workflow.

This chapter also concludes the first part of this book, which covers what I call classical web development. We walked through all the classical components, languages in particular, that people have been using to develop websites, and simple web applications: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL.

In the second part of the book, we will take it a step further and show you how to write shorter code, use a single web page instead of millions to get the job done, and write everything in a smarter...