Before reading JavaScript books, what is a good resource for learning HTML and CSS? I'm looking for material that will get me up to speed rather than specify every single compliance standard. So, concepts that are prerequisites for exploring JavaScript. I've done basic web development for about 6 months (HTML/CSS, ASP.Net) but my approach has been a top-down one - I've learnt from tutorials and code examples rather than books.
Many thank you's...
From personal experience, learn by example. Use the view source command in your browser to see how sites you like are crafted.
In addition to the aforementioned W3 Schools site, you could also look at SitePoint or some of the other, similar questions. (i.e. this one)
As also mentioned, you could find what you like and take a peek at the source, and ask about any particular item you don't understand. This option isn't without its pitfalls as there is some horrendous code floating around out there... same could be said for some of the tutorials - which is why the two sites I mentioned are run by reputable entities. ;)
I would recommend any of the tutorials on www.tizag.com. They are well written, concise, and the samples they give are useful.
Designing with Web Standards by Jeffrey Zeldman and, Eric Meyer on CSS and, More Eric Meyer on CSS
Read all three of those (or any one) and you'll be rewarded with an excellent foundation in HTML/CSS.
The Opera Web Standards Curriculum is a good starting point. It covers things clearly, and explains the "whys".
In addition to the above answers... I liked Andy Budd's CSS Mastery book. The head first books are usually ok and a quick to read through, so that may be an option.
Try to get something 2005 or newer. For instance, the Eric Meyer on X books above are excellent (some of my favorites) but contain some things that are no longer completely kosher.