RODERICK

I have windows xp 32-bit service pack 2. I want to install windows 7 from a disc, when I insert the disc I get an error that says my version of windows is not compatible and if I want to install windows 7 I have to boot from the disc. So I did that, all I got was a half-loaded windows 7 screen that freezes. Shouldn't I have formatted 1st? How do I format windows xp? Thanks. Also, I don't have the windows xp install disc, just windows 7.