Ubuntu studio/Windows xp dual boot help!?

First of all: What version of Ubuntu are you using?

Well... All you need to do is follow the instructions on the installation. As you'll see there is an option of "Assisted Partition". The installer will suggest that you partition the available size and it'll do it for you automatically.

I strongly recommend that you backup your data beforehand. Because partitioning a disk is a risky thing to do, even if you are using Linux.

During the installation, it will prompt you to create a Swap partition. Do it! It's highly recommended to have a Swap partition when using Linux. This works as the "Temporary Files" on Windows, in a way (this is not the right thing to say - it's only for you to understand how it works). Therefore, having a Swap partition on Linux improves system's performance quite a bit.

You'll have to create two different partitions: a Ext2 for the system and the Swap partition. But it's all automatic. It also install GRUB, which is a Boot Manager. It'll prompt if you want to install it. Pick yes. If you pick "no", your windows won't load anymore, although it'll still be there. You'll have to go through a lot of pain to config the GRUB since you haven't installed it at first and for Windows users, Linux can be (an is most times) very difficult to understand.

If you want a suggestion, go for OpenSUSE. It's way better than Ubuntu plus it is much easier to use, specially for not very experienced users like yourself.

Good luck

you cant partition the drive without formating i first, whcich means you have to reinstall xp, then make two partitions as you install to make way for the ubuntu. make a backup. that is the best solution.