If you are interested in creating computer programs, mobile applications, websites, games, or any kind of software, you should know how to program them. Programs are made in a programming language. This language allows programs to function on the machines that run them, such as computers, cell phones, or other hardware devices.
Step
Method 1 of 6: Selecting a Programming Language
Step 1. Determine your interests
You can start learning any programming language (though some languages are "easier" than others"), so you may want to learn by asking yourself: "What do I want to achieve by mastering a programming language?". You determine what programming language you should learn, and it gives you a good starting point.
If you want to be a web developer, you need to be fluent in a different language than the desktop program developer. Creating a mobile application also requires a different language than programming a machine. All of your decisions will determine the direction of your learning
Step 2. Consider learning a simple language
No matter what your choice is, you may want to consider learning a simpler, higher-level language. These languages are especially useful for beginners, as they teach basic programming concepts and thinking that can be applied to any language.
- The two most popular languages in this category are Python and Ruby. Both are object-oriented web application languages that use an easy-to-read syntax.
- Object-oriented programming languages mean they are built around the concept of "objects," or data sets, and their manipulation. This concept is used in various advanced programming languages, such as C++, Java, Objective-C, and PHP.
Step 3. Read some basic guides for different languages
If you're still not sure what language you want to learn, read the guides for several different languages. If one language is easier to understand than another, try using that language to see if it works for you. There are thousands of tutorials for every programming language on the Internet, and many of them are available on WikiHow
- Python - A great beginner language and quite powerful if you start to understand how to use it. This language is used in many web applications, and even some games.
- Java - Used in various types of programs, from games, web applications, to ATM software.
- HTML - The initial language that all web developers must master. You should be familiar with HTML before learning any other web programming language.
- C - Even though it's quite old, C is still powerful, and forms the basis of the newer C++, C# and Objective-C.
Method 2 of 6: Starting From Scratch
Step 1. Learn the basic concepts of the programming language of your choice
Although the steps will depend on the programming language you choose, all programming languages have basic concepts that are useful for building programs. Learning these concepts early will make it easier for you to solve problems and create powerful and efficient code. Below are common basic concepts found in many different languages:
- Variables - A variable is a way of storing and referring to an ever-changing piece of data. Variables can be manipulated, and often have specific types such as "integers", "characters", etc., which determine what data can be stored. When programming, variables usually have names that make them a little easier for human readers to understand. This makes it easier for variables to interact with other parts of the code.
- Conditional statements - These statements are actions taken based on the truth or falsity of a statement. The most common form of conditional statement is "If-Then", If the statement is true (eg x = 5), then something will happen. If the statement is false (eg x != 5), then something else will happen.
- Function or Sub-routine - The name of this concept varies depending on the programming language. This concept is usually called a "Procedure", "Method", or "Callable Unit", and is a smaller program within a program. A function can be "called" by a program many times, and allows programmers to easily create complex programs.
- Data input - This concept is very broad and is used in almost all programming languages. This concept includes handling user input and storing data that has already been entered. The way in which data is entered depends on the type of program and the input available to the user (keyboard, file, etc.). This is related to Output, which will display the results to the user, either in the form of an on-screen display or as a file.
Step 2. Install the required software
Most programming languages require a "compiler", a program that translates code into a language that the machine can understand. Other languages, such as Python, use interpreters, which can run code without compiling it.
- Some languages have an IDE (Integrated Development Environment), which usually contains a code editor, a "compiler" or interpreter, and a "debugger". IDEs allow programmers to perform the required functions in one place. The IDE may also have a visual representation of a hierarchy and directory of objects.
- There are many code editors available on the Internet. Code editors offer different ways of bolding syntax and offer other developer-friendly tools.
Method 3 of 6: Creating Your First Program
Step 1. Focus on one concept at a time
One of the first programs taught for any language was "Hello World". This program is a simple program that displays the text "Hello World" (or some other variation) on the screen. This program teaches novice programmers to create basic functional programs and how to handle output. By changing the text, you can learn how basic data is handled by the program. The English WikiHow has several guides on how to program "Hello World" in various programming languages:
- Hello World in Python
- Hello World in Ruby
- Hello World in C
- Hello World in PHP
- Hello World in C#
- Hello World in Java
Step 2. Learn by deconstructing an online sample program
There are thousands of code samples on the internet for almost any kind of programming language. Use these examples to learn how different aspects of a language work and how different parts of a language interact. Take parts from the examples provided to create your own program.
Step 3. Check the syntax
Syntax is a way of writing a language that is understood by the "compiler" and "interpreter". Each language has a different syntax, although some parts of the syntax are also used in many programming languages. Learning syntax is very important to learning programming, and it's usually the first thought that comes to mind when people hear about computer programming. In the real world, syntax is just the foundation on which to build further concepts.
Step 4. Experiment with changes
Make changes to your sample program and test the results. By experimenting, you'll learn what works and what doesn't work faster than reading a book or guide. Don't be afraid to break your program; learning how to fix errors is part of the development process, and new things almost always never work well at first.
Step 5. Start learning to debug
When you program, you are bound to come across errors/bugs, which are program errors and can appear anywhere. These errors may be harmless, or they may even prevent your program from running. Finding errors and fixing them is an important process in software development, so you should get into the habit of doing this early on.
As you experiment with changing the basic program, you'll find that things don't work properly. Finding other ways to make programs run is one of the most valuable skills you should have as a programmer
Step 6. Comment your code
Almost every programming language has a "comment" function, which allows you to type text that is not processed by the interpreter or compiler. Not only does this help you remember what code does in large programs, it's also an important process in collaborative environments, as comments allow others to understand what your code does.
Method 4 of 6: Study With Routine
Step 1. Write code every day
Mastering a programming language takes time. Even to master a simple language like Python (which only takes 1-2 days to understand the basic syntax) alone, you need a lot of time. Like any other ability, practice is the key to becoming fluent. Try spending a few minutes a day writing code, even if it's only an hour between work and dinner.
Step 2. Set your program goals
By setting goals that are challenging but still attainable, you will be able to start solving problems and finding solutions. Try choosing a basic app, like a calculator, and think about how to build one. Use the syntax and concepts you've learned and apply to your program.
Step 3. Discuss with others and read other programs
There are many programming communities devoted to specific disciplines or languages. Finding and participating in these communities will make your learning process easier. You will have access to a wide variety of examples and tools that will help with your learning process. Reading code from other programmers will be inspiring and help you understand concepts you haven't mastered yet.
- Look for programming forums and online communities for your language. Make sure you participate, don't just ask. Community is usually seen as a place for collaboration and discussion, not just a place for questions and answers. You may ask for help, but don't forget to show your code and be open to trying other views.
- Once you have some experience, try attending a shared programming session or a hack-a-thon. Both are events where people or teams race against time to create programs that work and usually revolve around a particular theme. These events can be fun and a great way to meet other programmers.
Step 4. Challenge yourself to keep learning fun
Try doing something you don't know how to do. Find out how to do something and implement it in your program. Don't settle for a program that works; do whatever it takes to make sure all aspects of your program run flawlessly.
Method 5 of 6: Expanding Knowledge
Step 1. Take programming training
Many universities, colleges, and colleges offer programming classes that you can take even if you're not a student. Programming classes are a good way to learn because you will be assisted by experienced programmers, as well as meet other local programmers.
Step 2. Buy or borrow a manual
There are many programming books for every language. While your knowledge shouldn't be limited by books, programming books offer good references and examples.
Step 3. Learn math and logic
Most programming concepts involve basic arithmetic, but you may want to learn more advanced concepts. It's important to master math if you're developing complex simulations or other algorithmic programs. For regular programming, you don't need complex math. Studying logic, especially computer logic, will help you understand how to solve problems for advanced programs.
Step 4. Don't stop programming
A popular theory states that a master requires 10 thousand flight hours. While its veracity is debated, the general principle remains: mastering anything takes time and dedication. Don't expect you to understand everything overnight, but if you stay focused on your studies, you may become an expert in your field.
Step 5. Learn another programming language
While you can get by with one programming language, many programmers increase their competitiveness by learning another programming language. Their second or third programming language usually supports their first language, and helps them develop more complex and interesting programs. Once you have a good understanding of your first language, learn a second language.
You may find that learning a second language is faster than learning the first. Basic programming concepts can be applied in a variety of languages, especially if the languages are still related
Method 6 of 6: Applying Skills
Step 1. Take an undergraduate course
While you don't really have to, studying for an undergraduate at university will expose you to multiple languages, and help you expand your network of professionals and other students. This method is certainly not for anyone, and many successful programmers have never attended an official institution.
Step 2. Create a portfolio
After you program and expand your knowledge, make sure your best work is stored in your portfolio. You can display your portfolio to interviewers and your potential boss as an example of your work. Make sure you display your work in your spare time, and that you are allowed to submit your work for the company you work for.
Step 3. Get a freelance job
There are many freelance job prospects for programmers, especially mobile app makers. Try making some apps to understand how it works to develop commercial apps. Often, you can use your freelance work to build a portfolio and direct your published work.
Step 4. Develop a commercial or free program
You don't have to work for someone else to make money programming. If you can program, you can build your own software and release it through other sites or marketplaces. Be prepared to provide support for your commercially released app, because buyers expect the app to work.
Free applications are a popular way to distribute small programs or tools. Developers won't earn money, but they will earn a good name and developers will be more visible in the community
Tips
- If you're interested in developing games, try Python, C++, or Java. Of the three, C++ performs the best, Python is the easiest language to learn, and Java runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux without changes.
- Learn about free software and program source code available in the Free software directory. Why create a new program when you can improve on an existing one? However, make sure you understand what you are programming.
- For most people, creating interesting or usable programs is more interesting than following the examples in books. Use a search engine to find projects that interest you.
- When you learn something new, it's a good idea to apply it yourself and change the design, to be able to predict the results and understand the concept.
- Use the new programming interface and available references from the software makers.
- References are available to help you. Don't be embarrassed if you can't memorize all the codes by heart, because mastery takes time. The important thing is that you know where to find references.
- For practice, try teaching people. Not only will you become more competent, you will also be able to think from different perspectives.
