Dumbest Q ever, but... (sorry)

What is the standard cache emptying procedures that some have referenced? I'm a newbie and have gotten some WONDERFUL help resolving my confusion on some issues. But I keep reading in my earlier post and elsewhere to be sure to clear cache after changing .css.  Please advise and THANK YOU! 

In your case, I'd say go to the administration page. On the main page you'll see a link to clear cache. Just click "all"

Then make sure you also clear the cache in your browser if you're working on something.

Perfect, thank you!

if you are in development stages with dolphin, then it would be best to just turn off the caching. since you will most likely be looking for style elements to change, and if cache is running, you cant find the required elements when using firebug or like-task tools.

caching is only relevant when running in production mode

if you are on cPanel you can go to file manager from cPanel --> cache --> tick the select all --> then hold down the control key, and tick the .htaccess to deselect it --> then hit the red X, this will dump the files in that cache directory.

NOTE, when dumping the cache directory, you want to retain the .htaccess file

similarly

do the same procedure with cache_public directory

i have never been a fan of the clear cache from the admin panel, nor am i sure it even works 100%

It didn't used too but it works fine since 7.06. Test it Dawg, use the all link and delete the cache, then go check the directory.