saving game

ok im starting my game up again so expect lots of questions from me (just a warning) i have vb.net 02 standard

i want my game to save when i exit it automatically. i was hoping you could give me some ideas.

also i want to know how to have a quicksave feature that you press f2 or something to save, i could figure that out if you answer the first question.

another thing is maps. what is a good map making tool that i could use? i took a 3d animation class (im not very good) but i didnt want to pay the 299.99 price after discount so id rather something free if possible so i was wondering if there was something like that i could make my graphics in. (i havea few in mind but i want to see what you guys come up with)

thats it for now but ill have more later,

THANKS :)

i konw its alittle much but if you could just give me some hints to go on and were to start i can go around on my own after that