In my CakePHP application layout I have a section for latest posts that needs to pull from a database. How would I tell it to render a partial so I can pull the latest posts? Sorry if this is a simple question, I just started CakePHP tonight.
As nickf said, you can use elements. Just create a latest-posts.ctp file in views/elements. There you can create a recyclable element.
Now, on views/layouts/default.ctp
$this->render('latest-posts');
There you go.
You can use elements to render a "mini view" of something.