[complete]

What is MVC really? Is "model-view-controller" basically the way all ASP.NET programs in Visual Studio are made? Is it the default way WPF applications are arranged?

[BobRodes]

Have a look at This.

[kevinloyed]

MVC is most important part of website & database connectivity.

[wmeyer714]

MVC is merely a "DESIGN PATTERN" for constructing you application. If you follow the general concept, you WILL ACHIEVE a maintainable, structured solution because your code is segregated into the various elemental parts : MODEL - data model, VIEW - UI code, CONTROLLER - provides the bridge between the data and the UI. You don't have to use all the MVC base classes to achieve an MVC app, but it does make it easier !!

[Lemur]

MVC is far more substantially used and built upon in web frameworks like Rails. Combined with ORM and ActiveRecords, it presents an entirely different take on Web (or Desktop) than most .NET or ASP type applications.

Think of it as a different view of programming that's not tied to the 3-tier and it will be substantially easier to learn. Preconceived notions from other languages will make it a royal headache, and I know the feeling trying that with a .NET conversion.