Programming vs Coding - What's the difference?

Summary

This video explains the difference between programming and coding, highlighting how programming involves logic and abstract problem-solving, while coding focuses on the syntax and technical details of specific languages. Programming is considered applied math, essential for solving complex problems, while coding is about implementing solutions with particular language syntax. The video also touches on how development extends beyond programming and coding to focus on solutions for business needs. Finally, the video emphasizes that mastering programming allows developers to learn coding languages quickly, ultimately helping them solve bigger challenges in tech.

Takeaways

• 😀 Programming is the manifestation of logic and is closely related to math, often considered applied math.
• 😀 Programming focuses on problem-solving, logical thinking, and can be language-agnostic, with pseudocode often used in interviews.
• 😀 CSS and HTML are not considered real programming languages because they lack the logical, problem-solving aspects of programming.
• 😀 Coding is more about implementing the details of a solution and requires mastering the syntax of specific languages.
• 😀 Programming is about understanding logic, while coding is about technical execution and handling language-specific syntax.
• 😀 Coding details, like code quality, function design, and file organization, are key parts of the coding process but can be boring to non-developers.
• 😀 Calling someone a 'coder' in the developer world may be seen as diminishing their skill set, implying they are easily replaceable.
• 😀 Once you grasp programming, learning new coding languages becomes easier, as programming provides the foundational mental models.
• 😀 Mastering one programming language can be more beneficial than learning many, as it enables deeper focus on logic rather than syntax.
• 😀 Development is different from programming and coding as it focuses on the business solution or end goal rather than the technical process.
• 😀 With automation and code generation tools on the rise, coding jobs may decrease, but the need for strong programming skills will remain crucial.

Q & A

What is the main distinction between programming and coding?

Programming refers to the logical aspect of defining behavior through instructions, while coding is focused on the technical details of implementing those instructions using specific programming languages.

Why is programming considered closely related to math?

Programming is often seen as applied math because it involves logical thinking, patterns, and problem-solving, which are fundamental aspects of mathematics.

Why are CSS and HTML not considered real programming languages?

CSS and HTML are not considered programming languages because they do not involve the logical, problem-solving aspects that are central to programming. They are more concerned with layout and structure rather than defining behavior.

How do tech companies test for programming skills during interviews?

Tech companies focus on testing logical thinking and problem-solving abilities rather than just coding skills. Often, interviews involve solving problems using pseudocode or a whiteboard, allowing candidates to demonstrate their understanding of programming concepts.

What is the purpose of Harvard's CS50 course?

The CS50 course focuses on teaching programming logic and concepts, starting with a simplified language (Scratch) before moving to real programming languages like C, JavaScript, and Python.

How is coding different from programming in terms of abstraction?

Coding operates on a lower level of abstraction, focusing on the technical details like syntax, code quality, and file structure. Programming, on the other hand, is more abstract, dealing with the logical structure and behavior of a system.

What is the significance of the 'Hello World' program in learning a new language?

'Hello World' is a simple program used across many programming languages to demonstrate basic syntax and ensure that the coding environment is set up correctly, even though the logic behind it remains the same.

Why is calling someone a 'coder' considered potentially offensive?

Referring to someone as a 'coder' can imply that they are merely a machine for writing code, potentially undervaluing their broader skills and reducing their role to a replaceable task, which can be seen as disrespectful in the developer community.

What is the relationship between programming and development?

Development is a broader field focused on creating solutions to business problems, which may involve programming or coding as part of the process. Development encompasses the entire process, from understanding the problem to delivering a functional solution.

What is the importance of mastering a single programming language when starting out?

Focusing on mastering a single language allows you to build a solid foundation in programming logic without being distracted by the syntax of multiple languages. Once you are proficient, learning additional languages becomes much easier.