What about when information is not given?

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I am interested in a hack which does not have clear information about Quote:

However I have read other QA's and will
1. back up the entire public html file by ftp so I can restore any major problem
2. put a copy of the files that need to change on my PC and edit them then reupload
3. keep a record of what i did for future upgrades.

However, I have some questions:
1. Do I simply locate the section of code that appears to be changed and copy and paste the new code over the old?
2. What kind of program is recomended for this kind of editing?
3. How can I check if I have made an error?
2. When I overwrite with the exsisting files after I am done do I need to update anything? (The files I am looking at are for block arrangements)

I was able to identify the version from where the hack is posted but that is it.

I don't mind jumping in at the deep end but it really would be helpful if those who write hack files could include the 3 things mentioned above for the sake of newbies!

So aside from don't go there what other advice is there for newbies wanting to try out a hack that doesn't give us instructions?

 Re: What about when information is not given?

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1. that depends on the hack, some require replacing code, some require adding, or removing or all 3..

2. i use dreamweaver for editing code.. but there are others.. stay away from frontpage though..

whilst dreamweaver is excellent, you will also find winMerge a great asset for comparing and highlighting the differences between files.. it greatly quickens the process of finding changed parts.. i'd recommend it..

3. double check and check again.. then upload and give it a try.. turn debug on, if it works.. good job.. if it don't then debug can help you trace where you may have edited incorrectly..

4. you only need to update if template files are edited.. sometimes DB additions are required.. in this case usually an install script is supplied, or an sql file which you would need to install via phpmyadmin.