mail
Ofcouse its gmail.yahoo is popular but there are many adds in yahoo site so it takes time to load but gmail works instantly.so goes for msn or hotmail too.
web design
its a common thing to post a web with good design others wise visitors will not want to view a web without a decent design.Sometimes only good design attracts the viewers most.
web design
if you are a beginner you should 1st learn HTML code than php than ASp.I think the are corresponding in order.You also have to learn photo shop to design a page.