How do I set up a programming environment for application windows?
Alright, I am a complete beginner at programming with application windows so I apologize from the bottom of my heart for probably asking a dumb question.  I am also a pretty big beginner at programming in general and have been trying to work on some little projects to get better. 

I decided I want to try and program using C++ and application windows and I do not have the slightest clue how to get started.  I have tried searching Google for a tutorial with a slow learning curve but it tends to take off after a page or so.  I have tried compiling sample code of very basic windows but it seems to fail with link errors or gives me other errors suggesting that the functions that I invoke to create the windows have too many identifiers or inaccurate identifiers.  

Is there a website or book someone could suggest to me that would help me get a thorough and fundamental understanding of developing programs using application windows, how to properly set up my development environment, etc?  Or any personal advice for how to carry out studying this?  Would it be better for me to look at visual C++?

Thanks
How do I set up a programming environment for application windows?
===

Alright, I am a complete beginner at programming with application windows so I apologize from the bottom of my heart for probably asking a dumb question.  I am also a pretty big beginner at programming in general and have been trying to work on some little projects to get better. 

I decided I want to try and program using C++ and application windows and I do not have the slightest clue how to get started.  I have tried searching Google for a tutorial with a slow learning curve but it tends to take off after a page or so.  I have tried compiling sample code of very basic windows but it seems to fail with link errors or gives me other errors suggesting that the functions that I invoke to create the windows have too many identifiers or inaccurate identifiers.  

Is there a website or book someone could suggest to me that would help me get a thorough and fundamental understanding of developing programs using application windows, how to properly set up my development environment, etc?  Or any personal advice for how to carry out studying this?  Would it be better for me to look at visual C++?

Thanks