complete unix newbie needing to learn the ropes.

[boi]

right now i just want to be able to run unix programs on my mac, but i figure i need to learn the unix platform sooner or later. can anyone point me in the right direction? i tried installing xwindows and all that once... it didn't go so well. i've got fink and windowmaker installed right now.
thanks for all help and patience.

Oo boi o.

[tieng]

Start with this thread.

http://www.macosx.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7133

If you're ready to graduate on to more topics, a great place to start is www.macosxhints.com. Specificially,
http://www.macosxhints.com/article.p...01112094433908

is a good thread to get you started. The book he recommends there is also a good one; it's the one I used a couple years ago to get started in Unix as well.

[karavite]

Hi boi,

I think we are in the same boat. After jcpowers21 instant messaged me through installing XWindows from source code on my Mac (the guy is a Saint)!, I decided I needed to pay my dues and become much more self sufficient. I have a few books which are basically *nix command dictionaries and although these types of books are (or will be) quite useful once one knows something of what they are doing, I personally needed more guidance. I just bought "Visual QuickStart Guide, Unix" by Deborah and Eric Ray, PeachPit Press, and it is really helping me get a firm handle on the basics of Unix. It starts off with many simple commands and quickly progresses. Of course, it may not work for you, so do what I do and go to one of your local bookstores, grab a pile of Unix books, go to the coffee shop (in the bookstore, else you will be arrested) and see which ones you like.

Personally, this is my way of contributing to X on X by giving the gurus more time to port applications, window managers and desktop environments by spending less time tutoring me (though I'm not saying you are in any way a burden to anyone!).

Good luck!