how should i start learning programming

I'd say Java.
If you want a good book,
"Java, how to program" by Deitel & Deitel.

Compfreak - threads entitled "?" or "???" are utterly pointless. We know you have a question, this site is called LinuxQuestions after all. Please use more descriptive titles - they help us when coming to the thread and help others when searching for a topic.

ok sorry im a newb

I am going to say, go with C or C++. I would normally say go with perl, but to really learn the basics of programming. C and C++ are really good to start out with.

If you are looking for a C or C++ book go for One of the Dietel and Dietel books. They have plenty.

Crap just go to your local library, they probably have some books on C and C++.

How is a bit of a hard question, different people learn different way, but what I will tell you about programming, that a lot of people fail to realize is that, to learn to program. You must program.

PROGRAM, PROGRAM, PROGRAM.

I say try to get atleast 2 hours fo programming in a day. It will help you learn to code a lot better, and a lot and faster.

The best thing to do is to write your thread and it's title and then to ask yourself: "if I saw that in a forum would it tell me about the question and would I want to answer it?", if yes, post away. If no, change it until you think a stranger would understand it.