The XML zone on developerWorks contains articles, tutorials, and tips to help developers with XML-based development. For users trying to find their way in a new topic, all of that information can be overwhelming. This page provides an overview for readers who want to learn about XML, but don't know where to start. This page helps you get organized and on your way -- whether you want to understand what XML is all about, explore Ajax, mashups or RSS, or prepare for XML certification.

HTML and the World Wide Web are everywhere. As an example of their ubiquity, I'm going to Central America for Easter this year, and if I want to, I'll be able to surf the Web, read my e-mail, and even do online banking from Internet cafés in Antigua Guatemala and Belize City. (I don't intend to, however, since doing so would take time away from a date I have with a palm tree and a rum-filled coconut.) XML will complement, rather than replace, HTML. Whereas HTML is used for formatting and displaying data, XML represents the contextual meaning of the data.

This practical, roll-up-your-sleeves guide distills years of ingenious XML hacking into a complete set of tips, tricks, and tools for web developers, system administrators, and programmers who want to leverage the untapped power of XML. If you want more than the average XML user--to explore and experiment, discover clever shortcuts, and show off just a little (and have fun in the process)--this invaluable book is a must-have. "Even though the book is a valuable resource intended for users who know their way around XML technologies, it also provides a fascinating insight for those who would like to know more about XML and its capabilities."

The Extensible Markup Language (XML) is a simple, flexible text format derived from SGML (ISO 8879). The W3C created, developed and continues to maintain the XML specification. The W3C is also the primary center for developing other cross-industry specifications that are based on XML. Some of these are being done within the XML Activity, such as XML Query and XML Schema, and some are being done in other W3C Activities, such as Web Services, SVG and XHTML. The XML Activity tries to keep a balance between maintaining stability and backwards compatibility, making improvements that help to encourage interoperability, and bringing new communities into the world of XML.