working on database in backend

[scvnews]

Is it possible to work on blog template files in the backend without having the site live? (and be able to view the changes)
I've read about installing wp on your local machine, the process seems over my ability...
What about creating a database in the backend at bluehost? and if so... easy, difficult or???

[charlesgan]

you can put up a blank index page on the domain.
setup the blog at subfolder.. eg, yourdomain.com/blog
And working on this blog

once its completed. You can reinstall at the yourdomain.com public_html