A good starting point

[spum]

I've been toying with my bass guitar for a little while now, but I'd like to start learning the important stuff like scales and theory. I just don't know where to start. Are there certain areas that are easier than others, or should I just dive in head first with the first thing I find? Can someone give me a suggestion on what a good order would be? I appreciate any help. Thanks.

[moogboy]

SONGS! learn lots of songs, the Bass Tab White Pages is great to start with, and the internet is bass tab heaven. scales and theory are important, but, it is easier to learn Iron Man than it is to learn every variant of the C Major scale.

[BlimpPilot]

I found that this book
(http://www.amazon.com/Edlys-Music-Th.../dp/0966161602) helped me get a great introduction to music theory, but that was about it, there are a ton of things it doesn't address, but it's remarkably well done as an introduction book. It explains everything very simply and in a sort of light tone so it's more fun and you can really enjoy it. Otherwise, you might check out musictheory.net which helped me a little bit as well.

[Plinkerton]

check out www.bassmasta.net.

That place is pretty rad.

[fearceol]

I've been playing for only a year so I'm no expert, but this is how I started. First I went to a teacher to learn good technique and some basic theory. The latter involved learning the major scales and to be able to play them all over the neck, and also learning where all the notes are on the fret board. As you progress, try playing along to cd's. Training your ear by playing along to your favourite music is better than using tabs IMO. When I get to a certain stage I go back to the teacher to move it on a bit more. Hope this helps.
Good luck with your learing and above all enjoy it.