Here's an idea. Simple is good for beginners.

The Hitech IDE is simple, my brain is simf sym simm simpu
simple. Do everything from there. I do it this way.

Everything is saved in the project file (1 place =good). I have spent
enough time rummaging through other peoples code to know that
the less places you have to look for things the better.

Also, save your .prj .c and .hex files for every version of your code
in a subdirectory like V101, V102 etc. This makes it easy to
retrieve old versions at a moments notice. Eg, customer says that
they liked the features in version X.XX better can you email them
the file for their programmer.

...plus lots more reasons, but then it wouldn't be simple anymore...

Brent Brown
Electronic Design Solutions
16 English Street
Hamilton, New Zealand
Ph/fax: +64 7 849 0069
Mobile: 025 334 069
eMail:  brent.brown@clear.net.nz