hooking up a stereo

need to know what wires are what so i can hook up a stereo

Knowing what year and trim you're talking about would help, but generally, there's no need to know what each wire is. Just go to you local electronics or automotive store, find the kit for your model, and it will come with a harness adapter and everything else you need to replace the factory radio.

i too would agree with the Install Kit. Choping up the factory wires isnt the right thing here.
The kit will also help with the large opening to fit in the new stereo. Around $25 ,and this saves you from shorting out wires causing endless headaches down the road. Been there done that.