5 answers
Ayden
Student
Deer Park, Washington
1
Question
Updated
956 views
When it comes to programming, where do I start?
When it comes to programming, where do I start?
Login to comment
5 answers
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
1. Learn Python Programming
Python is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity and versatility, used in fields like web development, data analysis, and AI.
Other languages to consider:
JavaScript: Perfect for web development and building interactive websites.
Ruby: Known for its simplicity and readability, great for web development.
C/C++: Excellent for low-level concepts, but can be more challenging for beginners.
2. Install a Code Editor/IDE
VS Code: Highly popular, versatile, and supports multiple languages.
PyCharm: Best for Python development.
Sublime Text: Lightweight and efficient for quick coding.
For Python: Install from python.org.
For JavaScript: All you need is a browser and a text editor to start.
3. Master Core Concepts
Variables & Data Types: Integers, strings, floats, etc.
Control Structures: if statements, loops (for, while).
Functions: Create reusable blocks of code.
Data Structures: Lists, arrays, dictionaries (or objects in JavaScript).
Error Handling: Learn try/except in Python, try/catch in JavaScript.
Resources:
Python: Official Documentation.
JavaScript: MDN Web Docs.
4. Practice Regularly (2 Hours a Day for 6 Months)
Python Project: Build a simple calculator or to-do list app.
JavaScript Project: Create an interactive webpage like a quiz or countdown timer.
Tip: Working on small projects helps solidify concepts and develop problem-solving skills.
5. Learn from Online Resources
FreeCodeCamp: Free tutorials and exercises.
Codecademy: Interactive lessons.
LeetCode/HackerRank: Practice coding challenges and algorithms.
Other Platforms: Khan Academy, W3Schools, Tutorialspoint, Udemy (many free courses available), YouTube channels.
6. Understand Version Control
Learn Git for tracking changes and collaborating with others. Store your code on platforms like GitHub to manage your projects and maintain a history of your work.
7. Build Larger Projects Over Time
As you gain confidence, start building more complex projects like a personal portfolio website, simple games, or a basic web app.
8. Join Developer Communities
Stack Overflow: Ask questions and find solutions.
Reddit (r/learnprogramming): A supportive community for beginners.
Discord/Slack: Join programming-focused groups.
LinkedIn: Network with professionals and discover job opportunities.
Following these steps will help you become a skilled programmer. Good luck!
Python is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity and versatility, used in fields like web development, data analysis, and AI.
Other languages to consider:
JavaScript: Perfect for web development and building interactive websites.
Ruby: Known for its simplicity and readability, great for web development.
C/C++: Excellent for low-level concepts, but can be more challenging for beginners.
2. Install a Code Editor/IDE
VS Code: Highly popular, versatile, and supports multiple languages.
PyCharm: Best for Python development.
Sublime Text: Lightweight and efficient for quick coding.
For Python: Install from python.org.
For JavaScript: All you need is a browser and a text editor to start.
3. Master Core Concepts
Variables & Data Types: Integers, strings, floats, etc.
Control Structures: if statements, loops (for, while).
Functions: Create reusable blocks of code.
Data Structures: Lists, arrays, dictionaries (or objects in JavaScript).
Error Handling: Learn try/except in Python, try/catch in JavaScript.
Resources:
Python: Official Documentation.
JavaScript: MDN Web Docs.
4. Practice Regularly (2 Hours a Day for 6 Months)
Python Project: Build a simple calculator or to-do list app.
JavaScript Project: Create an interactive webpage like a quiz or countdown timer.
Tip: Working on small projects helps solidify concepts and develop problem-solving skills.
5. Learn from Online Resources
FreeCodeCamp: Free tutorials and exercises.
Codecademy: Interactive lessons.
LeetCode/HackerRank: Practice coding challenges and algorithms.
Other Platforms: Khan Academy, W3Schools, Tutorialspoint, Udemy (many free courses available), YouTube channels.
6. Understand Version Control
Learn Git for tracking changes and collaborating with others. Store your code on platforms like GitHub to manage your projects and maintain a history of your work.
7. Build Larger Projects Over Time
As you gain confidence, start building more complex projects like a personal portfolio website, simple games, or a basic web app.
8. Join Developer Communities
Stack Overflow: Ask questions and find solutions.
Reddit (r/learnprogramming): A supportive community for beginners.
Discord/Slack: Join programming-focused groups.
LinkedIn: Network with professionals and discover job opportunities.
Following these steps will help you become a skilled programmer. Good luck!
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Ayden,
So you want to get into programming? Welcome to the world of infinite bugs, frustration, and the occasional "Aha!" moment that makes it all worth it. It’s like learning a new language, except instead of impressing people in Paris, you’ll be impressing your future self when your code actually runs.
Here is something to get you started. I hope!
First, pick a language. Python is the best beginner-friendly option—it’s like the chill uncle of coding, simple but powerful. JavaScript is great if you want to make cool websites. C++ is... well, let’s just say it’s for those who enjoy pain, like my brother. 😅
Next, find a project that excites you. Don’t just follow random tutorials forever—pick something fun, like making a simple game, a to-do list app, or even a chatbot that roasts you when you procrastinate.
Then, Google is your best friend. No, seriously. Every programmer lives on Stack Overflow, copy-pasting code until something works. Don’t feel bad about it—it’s part of the process.
Practice every day, even just 30 minutes. Programming is like going to the gym—skip too many days, and you’ll forget everything.
When you get stuck (and you will), don’t rage-quit. Debugging is 90% of programming. Instead of throwing your laptop out the window, take a break, explain the problem out loud (rubber duck debugging is a thing), or ask online forums.
Finally, build your own stuff. Once you understand the basics, try making something without following a tutorial step-by-step. That’s how you truly learn.
Oh, and one last thing—don’t fear failure. Even senior programmers break things daily. The key is to keep coding, keep learning, and keep breaking stuff until one day, you’re the one people ask for help.
Good luck future genius coder!
So you want to get into programming? Welcome to the world of infinite bugs, frustration, and the occasional "Aha!" moment that makes it all worth it. It’s like learning a new language, except instead of impressing people in Paris, you’ll be impressing your future self when your code actually runs.
Here is something to get you started. I hope!
First, pick a language. Python is the best beginner-friendly option—it’s like the chill uncle of coding, simple but powerful. JavaScript is great if you want to make cool websites. C++ is... well, let’s just say it’s for those who enjoy pain, like my brother. 😅
Next, find a project that excites you. Don’t just follow random tutorials forever—pick something fun, like making a simple game, a to-do list app, or even a chatbot that roasts you when you procrastinate.
Then, Google is your best friend. No, seriously. Every programmer lives on Stack Overflow, copy-pasting code until something works. Don’t feel bad about it—it’s part of the process.
Practice every day, even just 30 minutes. Programming is like going to the gym—skip too many days, and you’ll forget everything.
When you get stuck (and you will), don’t rage-quit. Debugging is 90% of programming. Instead of throwing your laptop out the window, take a break, explain the problem out loud (rubber duck debugging is a thing), or ask online forums.
Finally, build your own stuff. Once you understand the basics, try making something without following a tutorial step-by-step. That’s how you truly learn.
Oh, and one last thing—don’t fear failure. Even senior programmers break things daily. The key is to keep coding, keep learning, and keep breaking stuff until one day, you’re the one people ask for help.
Good luck future genius coder!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Ayden!
It's awesome that you're diving into the world of programming! The possibilities are endless, and it's a super rewarding journey. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Choose a Programming Language: Start with a beginner-friendly language like Python. It's widely used, has a simple syntax, and there are plenty of resources available to learn it.
2. Online Courses and Tutorials: Enroll in online courses like those on Coursera, Udemy, or edX. Websites like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer interactive tutorials to help you get hands-on experience.
3. Practice Coding: The best way to learn programming is by doing. Practice coding regularly on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars. They offer exercises and challenges to sharpen your skills.
4. Build Projects: Start small by creating simple projects, such as a calculator or a to-do list app. Gradually, take on more complex projects that interest you. Building projects helps you apply what you've learned and gain practical experience.
5. Join Communities: Join online communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit's r/learnprogramming, or local coding meetups. These communities can provide support, answer questions, and offer feedback on your work.
6. Read Documentation: Get comfortable reading official documentation for the languages and tools you use. It's a valuable skill that will help you understand how to use libraries and frameworks effectively.
7. Stay Persistent: Programming can be challenging at times, but don't get discouraged. Keep practicing, learning, and seeking help when needed. Persistence is key to becoming a proficient programmer.
8. Explore Different Areas: Try out different areas of programming, such as web development, data science, game development, or mobile app development. This will help you find what you're passionate about.
Remember, everyone starts as a beginner, and with dedication and practice, you'll become a skilled programmer.
Best wishes!
It's awesome that you're diving into the world of programming! The possibilities are endless, and it's a super rewarding journey. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Choose a Programming Language: Start with a beginner-friendly language like Python. It's widely used, has a simple syntax, and there are plenty of resources available to learn it.
2. Online Courses and Tutorials: Enroll in online courses like those on Coursera, Udemy, or edX. Websites like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer interactive tutorials to help you get hands-on experience.
3. Practice Coding: The best way to learn programming is by doing. Practice coding regularly on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars. They offer exercises and challenges to sharpen your skills.
4. Build Projects: Start small by creating simple projects, such as a calculator or a to-do list app. Gradually, take on more complex projects that interest you. Building projects helps you apply what you've learned and gain practical experience.
5. Join Communities: Join online communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit's r/learnprogramming, or local coding meetups. These communities can provide support, answer questions, and offer feedback on your work.
6. Read Documentation: Get comfortable reading official documentation for the languages and tools you use. It's a valuable skill that will help you understand how to use libraries and frameworks effectively.
7. Stay Persistent: Programming can be challenging at times, but don't get discouraged. Keep practicing, learning, and seeking help when needed. Persistence is key to becoming a proficient programmer.
8. Explore Different Areas: Try out different areas of programming, such as web development, data science, game development, or mobile app development. This will help you find what you're passionate about.
Remember, everyone starts as a beginner, and with dedication and practice, you'll become a skilled programmer.
Best wishes!
Cuauhtemoc Medina Muñoz
Program Manager
6
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Cuauhtemoc’s Answer
Starting your journey as a programmer can be tricky but here's a quick list that can get you started.
1. Choose a programming language:
Begin with a beginner-friendly language like Python, JavaScript, or Ruby. T
2. Learn the basics:
Focus on understanding fundamental concepts such as variables, data types, loops, conditionals, and functions.
3. Practice regularly:
Try solving coding challenges on platforms like Codewars.
4. Build projects:
Start with small projects and gradually increase their complexity.
5. Use online resources:
YouTube also has many free coding tutorials.
6. Read documentation:
Familiarize yourself with the official documentation of the language you're learning.
7. Seek mentorship:
If possible, find a mentor who can guide you, answer your questions, and provide insights based on their experience.
ALWAYS:
Stay curious and keep learning:
Technology is always evolving, so stay curious and keep learning new languages, frameworks, and tools.
1. Choose a programming language:
Begin with a beginner-friendly language like Python, JavaScript, or Ruby. T
2. Learn the basics:
Focus on understanding fundamental concepts such as variables, data types, loops, conditionals, and functions.
3. Practice regularly:
Try solving coding challenges on platforms like Codewars.
4. Build projects:
Start with small projects and gradually increase their complexity.
5. Use online resources:
YouTube also has many free coding tutorials.
6. Read documentation:
Familiarize yourself with the official documentation of the language you're learning.
7. Seek mentorship:
If possible, find a mentor who can guide you, answer your questions, and provide insights based on their experience.
ALWAYS:
Stay curious and keep learning:
Technology is always evolving, so stay curious and keep learning new languages, frameworks, and tools.
Minghao CHEN
38
Answers
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Updated
Minghao’s Answer
If you're new to programming, the best place to start is with a beginner-friendly language like Python. It has a simple syntax and is widely used in web development, data science, and automation. Begin by learning variables, loops, functions, and basic data structures through interactive platforms like Codecademy, Real Python, or W3Schools. Once comfortable, apply your knowledge to small projects, such as building a calculator or automating simple tasks, to reinforce what you've learned.
As you progress, choose a path based on your interests. If you enjoy web development, learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For data science, explore Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib. If you're into game development, try Unity with C#. The key is consistent practice and problem-solving—use platforms like LeetCode, CodeWars, or HackerRank to improve your coding skills. Don't just memorize concepts—build projects and experiment to truly understand programming.
As you progress, choose a path based on your interests. If you enjoy web development, learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For data science, explore Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib. If you're into game development, try Unity with C#. The key is consistent practice and problem-solving—use platforms like LeetCode, CodeWars, or HackerRank to improve your coding skills. Don't just memorize concepts—build projects and experiment to truly understand programming.