A regular expression is an encoded way of representing a pattern in a bit of text, and is a go-to tool for text processing. As such, regular expressions are an important part of automated extraction of information from Web sites. If you’re not familiar with regular expressions, learning to use them can be a little intimidating, but the rewards are well worth it.

A discussion of regular expressions can fill -- and has filled -- volumes, so it’s not feasible to attempt a discussion here. Fortunately, others have already published valuable learning resources for your enjoyment.

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Introducing Regular Expressions

http://shop.oreilly.com/product/0636920012337.do

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Beginning Regular Expressions

http://shop.oreilly.com/product/9780764574894.do

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regular-expressions.info

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The Best of Fluent: /Reg(exp){2}lained/: Demystifying Regular Expressions

http://www.oreilly.com/pub/e/2597

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Fun with Regular Expressions

http://archive.oreilly.com/oreillyschool/courses/asac4/asac411.html

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