I just purchased a Nikon D5100 camera and I have the option of getting a 55-200mm lense with a $100 discount. I am wondering in what situations I would use this lense and am wondering if it is something I should get?

That range govers many different types of pictures you may want to take. The longer focal length for taking close ups or for cropping photos as you take them to the 55 mm for normal semi-wide angle shots. The old standard used to be 50mm.

So what you're saying is the longer focal length is used when the object I'm taking a picture of is closer or farther away?

So what you're saying is the longer focal length is used when the object I'm taking a picture of is closer or farther away?

Sorry I'm new to photography so any help is appreciated. Also if you know of any good sites or other information let me know.

The 200 would be "zoom" or to pull things in closer.

Here is a site that may interest you.

Basic Photography Tips that apply everywhere-all the time