Now that I have my computer straightened out and everything installed once again. I can once again start teaching myself Java. So I have a question, what kind of projects are best to start with, GUI type applications or something else. Any ideas of some n00b type projects I can start with that will help me learn the basics of the Language?

I am currently using NetBeans for my IDE. Thanks

I'd do a console one first, just to get the "feel" of the various crap that is present in java and not in C or other languages.

I find most of my time reading the API so I don't reinvent the wheel in projects.

(Such as writing my own sorting algorithm, when most of it is already built in).

I'd agree with KYA, it is much easier to start with console applications, that way you can concentrate on one aspect of the language at once. If you like to start in the middle of things, then a GUI application can be a good choice: you'll meet threading, the collections framework, exception handling and whatnot at once. I know people who like this approach, they would sit in a room for a couple of days, and finally come out with a glorious face (or completely defeated). It's up to you.
If you want to find noob projects, simply have a look at the Java board, the mortgage calculator is an all time favorite I would also recommend Martyr's blog, he has posted some good tutorials there as well.
Reading the API, and the Feature reference guide is really important, because just as KYA wrote: you are tempted to reinvent the wheel all the time otherwise.
I think the documentation is quite different from MSDN, but for me it's accessibility is superior, but I guess it depends on the person in question.

Ah, since you use the NetBeans IDE, I tried to download that, and I got an unidentified type of file, and can't open it. In the installation instructions, it says to run the .exe file, but I don't get one. I was wondering if that ever happened to you.

I have Windows Vista, if that should matter any.

And what I consider a lower-level project may be much lower than your expectations...but I would just start with basic applications until you can get the structures, syntax and such down.

This post has been edited by Locke37: 3 Apr, 2008 - 04:27 PM

personally I find netbeans quite hard to use. Maybe I just can't get used to it. I agree with what everyone else is saying. Start out with simple console applications, move on to more complex console applications, and then eventually learn swing and make a game or something to keep your interest.

sorting algorithms are a pain to think about and I end up copying the commonly used ones off websites every time, but they're good practice to actually write yourself

In console apps, try writing progs like sorting,searching etc.