Q:

Writing URL Links into Elgg Database

I need to be able to create a page where a user can share links with fellow members.  I want to store these URLs in an SQL database so that I can check to see if each link posted is unique or if it has been shared before.  
From what I've read, creating and customizing my own elgg SQL database is not the way to go.  So, I need a little direction as to how to go about doing this within the current elgg (1.8.13) framework. I would think that I would need to create my own database but maybe someone can fill me in as to where this data would be stored?

A:

You should:

Read up on Elgg's data model http://docs.elgg.org/wiki/Engine/DataModel
Follow their tutorials to understand how to create a plugin using this data model.
Sign up for an account at elgg.org for more timely response. http://docs.elgg.org/wiki/Tutorials/Blog
Do your sanity a favor and buy this book: http://www.amazon.com/Elgg-Social-Networking-Cash-Costello/dp/1849511306

The bottom line is that Elgg provides you with a data abstraction layer so that you don't need to write your SQL manually. 
P/s: if you are not too familiar with PHP, I'd recommend trying something else. But it's just my opinion.

