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First, do you have a copy of SQL Server? If not, I'd suggest you get the Developer's Edition. It's only $50 and includes everything that SQL Server can do. If you don't want to spend the money then you can download SQL Server Express from Microsoft, but you may find that a more problematic approach since it doesn't come with a GUI by default. Learning SQL Server from scratch is a huge topic. What to do depends on how you learn. I learn primarily from reading and experimentation. If you're like me, then I'd suggest you start with learning the primary language of SQL Server, Transact SQL. The best book for that is [TSQL Fundamentals][1] by Itzik Ben Gan. Since you're just getting started you're going to need a general book. I wrote several chapters in the book "[Beginning SQL Server Administration.][2]" The book is completely an introduction to the subject so it should cover most of what you need. If you don't learn through reading, then you really should find a local trainer who will walk you through stuff. Once you're set up and going, the best way to learn is by doing. Build a database to store your book collection or recipes or whatever. That way you can learn fundamentals. After that... it's a slog. It's extremely difficult to find a job as a beginner. Most shops like DBAs that are experienced. You might take a look at Tom LaRock's book on becoming a [DBA Survivor][3] and Brad McGehee's book on becoming an [Exceptional DBA][4]. [1]: http://www.amazon.com/T-SQL-Fundamentals-first-Text-Only/dp/B004PRM0NY/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1306578489&sr=8-8 [2]: http://www.amazon.com/Beginning-SQL-Server-2008-Administration/dp/1430224134/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1306578445&sr=8-11 [3]: http://www.amazon.com/DBA-Survivor-Thomas-LaRock/dp/1430227877/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1306578531&sr=8-1 [4]: http://www.simple-talk.com/books/sql-books/how-to-become-an-exceptional-dba,-2nd-edition/

Well darn @Grant Fritchey you didn't leave much for the rest of us to recommend. @sourav You stated that you already know SQL 2005. Going from SQL 2005 to 2008 is not a huge leap. There was a good learning curve from SQL 2000 to 2005 with Enterprise Manager and Query Analyzer changing to SSMS and the introduction of Surface Area Connection, database Mirroring, etc. From 2005 to 2008 there are not as many cosmetic changes. The Query Optimizer was enhanced, several new DMO's, etc. I would suggest picking up a book that covers the upgrades. Grants recommendation for "Beginning SQL Server Administration" is a great read as well as all his recommendations. Grant's advise for getting a copy of SQL 2008 Developer is a MUST. It is very inexpensive at $50 and you can purchase it online and download it. Your second question was which topics should you concentrate on. Well, to answer that we need to know your goals? What are you trying to achieve? Passing a certification, getting a job, learning 2008 more? Your third question was how does it look in real time, for me it looks just like 2005 with the exception of a few things that were in Surface Area Connection have been moved to a Facet. Your first question was about practice. You can only get practice from doing, so get that copy of developer and start playing with it.

To add to the great answers so far. Consider doing volunteer work, or search for a local user group and get involved there. If you can find a mentor who can show you the ropes, even better. Watch for possibilities at your current job. Do everything you can to take on any db related work, it sucks at the beginning, but you have to pay your dues. it also takes you out of the comfort zone and gets you thinking about new stuff. oh yeah, get involved here. You will learn a huge amount by participating. If you make a mistake, accept it, learn from it, move forward. Real questions and answers are worth their weight in gold IMO. Learning by doing gets you more than you'd think.