To start learning PHP effectively, establish a development environment, utilize online resources, and practice regularly. Complement your PHP knowledge with HTML and CSS. Begin with simple projects, explore frameworks, and develop strong debugging skills. Staying updated and working on real projects will help you become proficient in PHP web development.

As you become more comfortable with PHP, delve into topics like variables, conditional statements (like "if" and "else"), loops ("for" and "while"), and functions. These elements are the building blocks for creating dynamic and interactive web applications. The key to progress is practice. Start with small projects, gradually taking on more complex ones as your skills improve.

Remember, learning is a collaborative effort, and there's a welcoming online community of PHP enthusiasts eager to provide guidance and solutions when you encounter challenges. Don't be disheartened by mistakes; they're a natural part of the learning process. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and, most importantly, enjoy your exciting journey into the world of PHP!