How to Learn Programming
The 3 steps to learn programming are:
- Decide why you want to learn
- Choose a programming language
- Decide how you are going to learn
Decide why you want to learn
You first need to decide whether you are serious about learning programming and want a job in programming or if you just want to program for a hobby. This will help you choose a programming language and choose the way you are going to learn.
Choose a programming language
Once you have a reason for learning programming you can choose a programming language. If you are serious about programming then you should start off with a language like C because it is a popular language for both learning and business use and there are many C tutorials, books and resources available. C is difficult to learn but you will get the benefits of learning it later on. You should focus on just one language while learning the basics of programming. It is better to know 1 language very well than to know a little about many. If you have an in depth knowledge of just 1 language then it is much easier to learn other languages.
Alternatives to C:
- C# - A new and popular language that is based on C but has a lot more features and is much easier to use
- Pascal - A very popular learning language that is easier to use than C
- C++ - Based on C but includes advanced features. It is better to learn C before C++
- Java - Java is becoming a popular business and learning language. Doesn't teach you some important concepts that C/C++ does
If you are learning programming as a hobby then you should choose a programming language like Visual Basic because it is easy to use and you can start making useful programs straight away.
Alternatives to Visual Basic:
- Delphi - Delphi is a little bit more difficult than Visual Basic but teaches other important programming concepts
- Scripting Languages(Python, Perl) - Easier to program in than compiled languages but not always as useful
Decide how you are going to learn
People who are serious about programming should think about taking a course at a college or university. You will find it easier to put the effort into learning when you have to pay for it. They also teach you everything you need to know so that you don't miss out on anything.
If you are programming for fun then you should get yourself a book or find some tutorials on the Internet.
Comments
You will find that programming is difficult at first but becomes easier later. You should try not to quit if you think it is too difficult for you because most programmers once thought it was difficult but have no problems today. Learning how to program is very rewarding and is worth all the hard work. Good Luck!