I read somewhere on JavaRanch itself that Microsoft Visual Java is not a very good editor to use.
I also agree with Miguel's point. You will find this in ALL forums for IDEs. IDEs are normally recommended for 'seasoned' programmers who know what the languase is all about.
If you are a beginner,
you should stick to a simpler Text Editor.
And yes, i agree with Miguel again, TextPad is very popular, i use it myself.