Best software for making websites

[Xystence]

I know Dreamweaver is highly regarded in the level of pros, but I am just now starting to learn the in and out of coding. I have tried Sandvox and Rapidweaver and I feel they are actually way to limited and simple for what I am looking for.

I used to be very comfortable with Frontpage back in the day but its been a long time. What is the absolute best software to learn how to build websites on mac right now? My current goal is to convert my wordpress website into a normal website. I only used wordpress because to me it was simple and I could get close to what I wanted by playing with the code some.

Thank you for anyones opinion in advance!

 

[kurzz]

TextEdit. Or any other text editor, like TextMate or BBEdit. Seriously, unless you get right into the code, there's no other way to be a true pro.

After mastering the code, use the more expensive apps like Dreamweaver, Coda, etc. as a time-saver, so you don't have to do things manually.

 

[Mrguidogenio]

I have started to learn Python as my first language and TextMate is great. Check it out!

 

[jluros]

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You can keep the Wordpress framework and still tweak it to do anything. As for tools, I use Espresso, SubEthaEdit with Fetch, and Coda.

 

[Hermes Monster]

Try Aptana Studio, I really like it and its free

 

[maflynn]

I use rapidweaver. It has a bit of a learning curve but with the additions of plugins its an easy to use potent application.

 

[Nostromo]

There are two options for you:

1. Code it yourself.

"Coding" sounds very impressive, but it's not as hard as it sounds. A good first book is "Head First HTML and CSS".

TextWrangler is free and a great editor.

Use the HTML and CSS validation sites.

2. Use software that does the mark-up for you.

Code is not as clean and fast loading (at least that's what I heard, maybe Dreamweaver is now perfect).

If Dreamweaver is too pricey, go with the free iWeb. You can create nice websites with it. Just be sure to avoid the typical iWeb look (like the dark, textured paper background).

3. Depending on your needs you can get turnkey options. You can also turn Wordpress into a website. There are "wordpress premium themes" who do that for you.

I code my sites myself. It's fun - except when it doesn't work.