I’ve been messing around with web site design and development for quite awhile. I learned a little html and it has proven invaluable to me in my little projects. I regret all the time not learning more. I tried css, but found that if you don’t use it regularly, well, it’s hard. Now I want to venture into using wordpress. More as a web site than a blog. Again, I wish I had more detailed knowledge of html/css.

I think your advise is right on point for anyone seriously thinking about being involved in web site design/developement.

Note: After taking several classes, I find your newbie tutorial one of the best I’ve come across. I intend to go thur it from A to Z. Thank you.

I agree that many professional designers use such programs. But there is one thing I’d like you to think about: those designers also have a deep knowledge of HTML and CSS.

My concern is for people new to website design. I’m concerned that they will rely on the software 100% – so much so that it becomes a crutch.

If you are used to using a WYSIWYG editor then that’s perfectly fine. Just make sure to learn HTML and CSS as well. You’d be surprised just how much better you can create websites! (Something I learned the hard way.)