What's the best way to learn programming?

AeroEngineer3141
Sat, 08 May 2010 22:03:35 +0000

There are shelves of books available for learning new languages. Many are written with a lesson plan in mind, but the more in-depth ones will often be a bit less structured. Not to mention e-books and forums (these are actually great resources, more than one might initially think).

Nevertheless, I’d advise that you learn a base language under another mentor’s guidance. Learning good coding habits and syntax can’t really be self-taught, and it’s worth it to be able to have someone answer your questions. After you become relatively proficient in one language, learning others becomes much easier. Instead of a personal tutor, you could supplement your books by taking advantage of programming-centered forums. I actually learned a lot more on my own than with my teacher, although he did a good job of introducing me to the field and enforcing basic programming habits.

Learning a programming language on your own is actually much simpler than learning a foreign language, or self-studying a math course, imo. Many professionals are proficient in two or more languages, and capable enough in several more.

Most people start out with Java, C++, or sometimes Python. I recommend C++. Python is also a great language to learn, but it might lead to poor programming habits should you ever cross over to another platform. Java is way too verbose and doesn’t employ the same raw power of C++. If you want to choose for yourself though, look at “Hello World!” examples for each language, and choose the one that looks the most understandable.