How to Select Your First Programming Language

Summary

Choosing your first programming language can be daunting, but it's important to remember that it doesn’t determine your entire career. Most developers learn multiple languages, with each one teaching new concepts that make the next language easier. Popular beginner languages include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and PHP, each serving different purposes from web development to data science. The key is to focus on what you want to build and pick a language that aligns with that goal. Ultimately, learning to code should be fun, and sticking with it will lead to success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Choosing a programming language for the first time feels like a big decision, but it's normal to learn many languages throughout your career.
• 😀 Learning programming is an ongoing process, and you will likely use multiple languages as your skills evolve.
• 😀 Programming languages, though different in syntax, share common concepts, making it easier to learn additional languages over time.
• 😀 Picking the 'wrong' language is not a permanent roadblock—many developers experience challenges, and overcoming them makes you better.
• 😀 Early learning challenges in programming are normal. Push through confusion, take notes, and keep learning.
• 😀 HTML and CSS are the foundation of web development, essential for creating static web pages.
• 😀 JavaScript is the next step after HTML/CSS for web development and is a powerful, general-purpose language.
• 😀 PHP is widely used for web development, especially in manipulating databases and adding dynamic content to websites.
• 😀 Python is beginner-friendly and versatile, used for web development, data science, automation, and much more.
• 😀 Ruby, often associated with the Rails framework, is great for building web applications, particularly in the startup world.
• 😀 When choosing a programming language, consider the type of projects you want to build or the companies you want to work for—this will guide your decision.

Q & A

What is the first question most beginners ask when starting programming?

The first question most beginners ask is, 'What language should I learn first?'

Does the programming language you start with determine your career for the rest of your life?

No, starting with one programming language does not determine your career for life. Many developers learn several languages and switch between them as their career evolves.

What is the relationship between different programming languages?

Although programming languages can have different syntax and rules, they all share common concepts. Learning one language makes it easier to learn others.

What should you do if you feel like you picked the wrong programming language?

If you feel like you've picked the wrong language, it could be because it's difficult or verbose. However, if you push through the confusion and continue learning, you'll improve and learn to enjoy it.

What languages should beginners consider learning for web development?

For web development, beginners often start with HTML and CSS, which are essential for creating static web pages, followed by JavaScript for interactivity.

What is JavaScript used for, and why is it a good language to start with?

JavaScript is used to add interactive features to websites, and it has grown into a powerful, general-purpose language that works on both the web and outside browsers. It's a great starting language for many people.

What is PHP, and why is it popular in web development?

PHP is a popular language for server-side web development, widely used for dynamic content and database management. It powers major websites like Facebook and Wikipedia.

Why is Python considered a good programming language for beginners?

Python is beginner-friendly because its syntax is easy to read and understand. It's also versatile, used for everything from web development to data science, and has a 'batteries included' approach with many pre-built solutions.

What is Ruby, and how is it used in web development?

Ruby, often used with the Ruby on Rails framework, is popular in web startups. It is known for being efficient in turning ideas into prototypes and applications quickly, powering sites like Hulu and Airbnb.

How are Objective-C and Swift different when developing for Apple devices?

Objective-C is more verbose and challenging to learn, while Swift is a newer, simpler language designed to be easier to read and use, especially for newer Apple developers.

What should you consider when choosing a programming language to learn?

You should consider what you want to build, the types of projects you want to work on, and the resources available for learning that language. Research job requirements and explore project ideas to guide your choice.

How can you find resources to learn a programming language?

There are many resources available, including podcasts, video tutorials, books, apps, conferences, and meetups. It’s important to immerse yourself in the language, even if some resources may seem advanced at first.

What is the most important thing to remember when learning to code?

The most important thing is to enjoy the learning process. Coding should be fun, so don’t let early challenges discourage you. Stick with it, and you’ll eventually love the journey of coding.