Computer programming is how individuals may connect and interact with computers. It is the use of several languages to connect with and instruct computers.
Programming languages are those that computers understand, and there are several languages for different tasks. Programming enables us to do many of the things we do every day, such as use our computers or phones, as well as power the systems around us, such as financial services and banking. Learn more about computer programming basics below.
Programming Basics for Beginners: What is Programming?
Programming is a technological procedure that instructs a computer to undertake specific activities to solve problems. Programming can be understood as a form of collaboration between humans and computers, where humans create instructions, known as code, in a language that computers can interpret and execute. Programming facilitates numerous things in our lives, including:
- When you visit a website to find information or make a purchase, programming enables you to interact with the site’s on-page features, such as sign-up or purchase buttons, contact forms, and drop-down menus.
- App programming may make it simple to purchase meals, schedule ridesharing, measure your fitness, access media, and much more.
- Programming enables businesses to function more efficiently by using various software for information storage and automation, as well as video conferencing solutions to link individuals around the world.
- Space exploration is made possible via programming.
Basics Of Programming In C
C is a high-level programming language that is used to construct computer software and applications, as well as system programming and games. Dennis M. Ritchie designed the C programming language at Bell Telephone Laboratories in 1972.
It is a sophisticated and adaptable language that was originally designed for programming the UNIX operating system. C is one of the most popular programming languages.
The C programming language is noted for its simplicity and efficiency. It is the greatest way to get started with programming because it provides a solid core understanding.
It was used in programs for developing operating systems. It was recognized as a system development language because C code ran at the same speed as assembly language code.
The usage of C is shown below:
- Operating Systems
- Language Compilers
- Assemblers
- Text Editors
- Print Spoolers
- Network Drivers
- Modern Programs
- Databases
- Language Interpreters
- Utilities
Basic Coding Language for Beginners: Top 8 Languages
1. HTML
Although almost everyone has heard of HTML, you may be shocked to realize that it is regarded as a contentious programming language. HTML is a markup language, which stands for “hypertext markup language.” What is the difference? HTML is essentially incapable of performing the fundamental capabilities of other programming languages, such as logic building, conditional statements, and even simple arithmetic calculations.
However, just because you can’t write an IF-ELSE statement doesn’t mean you won’t be glad you spent time learning HTML. It is the standard markup language used on the internet to structure web pages and display text.
It is notable for its extensive use of tags or labels that specify the type of text that should appear on the page. For instance, this article’s body text would begin with a tag and end with a tag. HTML tags define practically everything about a web page’s text, including font size and hyperlinks.
2. CSS
If HTML defines your webpage’s content, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) dictate how each HTML element should appear. CSS is used to code all of the frames that appear on a web page, such as text boxes, background pictures, and menus.
Have you ever noticed how a web page is arranged differently on your phone than on your desktop? That is because CSS determines whether page elements are shown or hidden based on screen size and resolution.
CSS is a rule-based language, which means you may apply rules to each type of group defined in HTML to determine how different types of text and pages should appear. For example, you can use CSS to underline all hyperlinks in hot pink and bold all level 2 headers in green. So, while CSS and HTML can be used alone, they work together to generate web pages with customized information and layout.
CSS, like HTML, is not regarded as a comprehensive programming language, but this has not prevented it from joining the unstoppable triumvirate of web page languages.
3. JavaScript
HTML and CSS cannot directly contain conditional statements and other decision-making features; hence they are not regarded as comprehensive programming languages. But what if you want an interactive web page? For example, what if you’re going to include a drop-down menu or a button that changes color and content when you hover over it?
As a full programming language, JavaScript is used to manage programming loops and make logical judgments depending on user input, such as hovering over a menu or typing anything into a search box. It may also output HTML and CSS code, allowing it to create interactive and dynamic websites.
However, JavaScript is capable of more than just that. It can be run on the back end using project environments such as Node.js. This enables web applications to run in a single programming language from the client to the server.
4. Python
We can’t keep talking about simple programming languages without mentioning the giant in the space. Python is frequently ranked among the most popular programming languages, and for good reason. Python was designed from the start of the 1980s to be highly legible code that could be easily extended with modules throughout the foreseeable future.
It is also popular among programmers due to its multi-paradigm capabilities. This means it can handle a variety of programming approaches (paradigms). This encompasses both object-oriented programming, which focuses on manipulating datasets (or objects), and functional programming, which focuses on utilizing functions to do complex or multi-step tasks.
5. R
Since its inception in 1993, R has been the preferred programming language for anybody interested in statistical analysis, data science, or data mining. While R is typically accessed via a command-line terminal, there are other graphical interfaces available. Some of them allow individuals to use basic R functions without having to learn any R code, which contributes to the language’s popularity.
R is open source, which means it is free to use for both personal and business uses. This also implies that there are thousands of user-created downloaded packages that perform functions far beyond the original code.
Some packages provide generic functions, such as data visualization. However, most are developed for quite particular professional duties, which is why R is so widely used. There is an R package to meet your demands, whether you are interested in general statistics, genetic sequencing, geospatial analysis, or everything in between.
Another advantage of R is the knitr engine, which can generate dynamic, publication-ready reports and web pages by combining R code with LaTeX, HTML, or Markdown.
6. Ruby
What do you name a Perl with Lisp? A ruby, of course! Yukihiro Matsumoto, the author of Ruby, aimed to build a language that combined the finest features of Perl, Lisp, Smalltalk, Ada, and Eiffel. And that is how Ruby was born.
Unlike Python, which concentrates on offering a single, simple answer to every problem, Ruby attempts to allow several techniques to reach the same goal. This gives Ruby the kind of freedom that programmers appreciate.
Another reason Ruby is so popular is that programmers can modify even fundamental aspects of the language to meet your requirements. For example, if you prefer to spell out your mathematical operators rather than using symbols (“plus” instead of “+”), you can do so in Ruby.
7. Java
One of the most significant advantages of Java is that it was built to work in distributed contexts such as the Internet. That is, across various servers and machines. And, despite its age, Java remains relevant and cutting-edge thanks to ongoing testing and updates.
Java developers can be confident that if they create a Java application on one platform, it will also work on all other key platforms. Because of the language’s flexibility, developers can use it not only on computers and mobile devices but also in gateways, consumer items, and virtually any other electronic device.
Finally, Java is known for its dependability and security, which is another reason why developers are drawn to it.
8. PHP
We’ve primarily concentrated on programming languages that aid in front-end and application development, but back-end engineers have their favorites, including PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP). This language is commonly used in HTML to quickly access and handle server-side resources, including databases. Many web forms employ PHP to create or change database records.
Another advantage of PHP is its built-in security, which allows you to encrypt data and restrict access to specific portions of your website.
It’s hardly surprising that huge firms like WordPress and Facebook utilize PHP, given its ease of use, broad capability, and security features.
Basics of Programming Course: Top 5 Recommended Courses for Beginners Online
1. Code Yourself! An Introduction to Programming, Coursera
Choosing to learn a programming language can seem difficult. That’s why this course is an excellent place to start—it’s designed for complete novices and will lead you through the fundamental programming and computing principles you’ll need as you learn to code.
2. Coding for Beginners 1: You Can Code! Skillshare
Here’s another introductory course for someone who wants to learn the fundamentals of coding and obtain some background knowledge before diving in deeper. Skillshare provides a free seven-day trial, and at 11 hours, this course should easily fall within that time frame.
3. Microsoft Excel VBA Fundamentals: Learn Basic Coding Skills, Udemy
Did you know you could learn to code with Excel? Yes, it’s a terrific and easy method to get started with programming because you already know how to use it!
If you don’t have Excel on your PC, use Google Apps Script and Google Sheets, which are both free.
4. Learn the Fundamentals of HTML5 and CSS3: Beginner Web Development on Udemy.
Knowing how to design a website will make your life a lot easier if you ever want to start a side hustle. This lesson will lead you through the process of creating HTML and CSS, step by step.
5. Learn JavaScript on Codecademy
Codecademy is an excellent location to begin learning JavaScript—with its hands-on approach to coding, you’ll pick it up quickly.
Conclusion
Are there many programming languages that make developers’ jobs easier? You bet. Do you have to learn them all? No, instead, we recommend focusing on a few languages that are most useful in your chosen profession. In choosing a career in technology, you can look into many careers in the industry to see which one is best for you. Get the courses listed here, and it will propose which language is best for you.