adding mods ect

I have a hit counter and some junk that i want to put but its all in html.  How do i convert some of this to this php stuff?  Also how do i edit the index page?  I really want to edit that front page.   Again i have no clue what this php stuff is but ill hang in there.  Then i want the index as like a main front page then i would add a botton on the top that said forums.   Help me out please.  Also in the footers what code do i put to get the quick post bottons??

Cows