I am attempting to lean how to write a plugin but am having trouble knowing how to work with the Class Reference documentation. I understand all of the theory and how object oriented programs work. But I have never actually worked on a real world problem. I have only worked on small programs to learn the concepts.

I am overwhelmed by the Class Reference and don't know best practices for attacking a new project and using the Class Reference documentation. I feel overwhelmed and stuck, and so my question is can an experienced developer or two share some guidance as to their methodology for working with a framework in the real world?

The plugin itself is conceptually simple. I'm working on developing a application similar to tinyurl.com. I need to store data in a database table and then read it back. I also then need to then figure out how to do a redirect.

My main goal is to get the general guidance on how to approach any new project with regard to how to start. Any guidance on the specific problem is also appreciated.