Partitioning

[volvoguy]

If you have a big chunk of free (unallocated) space on your hard drive
already, there really isn't any need for ANY partitioning tools. (if
I'm understanding the original post correctly). In Windows, you could
even go one step farther and partition (but don't format) the free
space. The first partition would be your root filesystem, and the
second (500Mb should be enough) will be a swap partition. (of course
the first partition is total space minus the 500Mb for swap)

Personally, I think this the easiest way to handle the situation for a
newbie. It can be especially difficult if they're getting all their
information from the net - and don't have a local linux guru to help.
I think you can do a lot more damage by forcing yourself to use the
linux fdisk without knowing what you're doing.

The next best idea is qtParted run from a live cd that uses a 2.4
kernel. If you want to go this route and are having a hard time
finding a live cd that fits that description, just ask - I'm sure
someone here will be able to help.

Like Hudson touched on, you'll probably have to learn some things in
this whole process. It sounds like you're already doing that - which I
commend. If the 'net is your primary source of info, feel free to ask
lots of questions - especially if you're unsure of how to do
something.

Aaron