I went to the track plan database for the first time. I was wondering does it ever give you step by step instructions, or does it only show you a photo? Thank you for your help.
model Railroader´s track plan data base only contains images of layouts featured in previous editions of the magazine. These are usually layouts build by private persons, so there are certainly no detailed step-by-step instructions available.
If you want to learn how a layout is built, get one of the good introductory books our host offers, or check the video serious on the World´s Greatest Hobby.
Usually, MR does a project railroad every year starting with the January issue and running for about 4 months. These are pretty detailed and should cover what you want.
The plans are usually included in the track plan database but are not identified as such,
For 2012 it was The Virginian.
Under the menu bar above, under videos there are some recent project railroad videos which may help. Most require you to be a subscriber.
Watch the January 2013 issue for a new one.
Good luck
Paul