Compiling an APP

[Wallydog]

I downloaded some files, they are .gz files and .tgz files and some 
source code.
Every time i ask someone how to uses the programs, i always
get, just read the READ ME...or just compile it.  most of these don't 
have read me's.
I'm a complete NEWBEE...  I have no clue what the commands are for the 
terminal to compile an
app....How do I do it???  Is there any resources out there on the net to 
help me..

wallydog-