Earlier in my career I concentrated learning how to construct software irrespective of language. I remember a good book I read probably 10 years ago, called "Code Complete". Its still on my shelf.
I also don't recommend copying other people's code until you are familiar with the language in question and can debug and enhance the code.
Choose a language - nothing wrong with Basic for learning purposes - get a book that takes you from Hello World to building a small app and read it cover to cover. And be patient. Don't copy other people's code for now. I think you'll get more reward this way and will be able to build upon your learnings instead of spending your time trying to make your current mashups work.
I also don't recommend copying other people's code until you are familiar with the language in question and can debug and enhance the code.
Choose a language - nothing wrong with Basic for learning purposes - get a book that takes you from Hello World to building a small app and read it cover to cover. And be patient. Don't copy other people's code for now. I think you'll get more reward this way and will be able to build upon your learnings instead of spending your time trying to make your current mashups work.