Build a table with user specific content, read-write to SQL using php

I want to so some fooling around with a user zone and am somewhat capable of programming once I know what is going on but want you to help me ramp up with understanding how to link php and a sql database. Specifically, I am going to make a user zone in my web site where users can enter their own cashflow data (various expense categories, etc. ) and have that stored in a database. Can you help me get started so I can then tinker with it? I think I am looking for a couple hours' work.