Learning computer programming can seem intimidating. Even the phrase "computer programming" sounds impressive!
For a long time, the profession of programmer was seen as that of experts or super-talented geeks. Yet acquiring skills in this field is now within everyone's reach. Especially since such knowledge offers many opportunities in the job market, whether you're a freelancer or looking for a salaried position.
Learning computer programming also proves useful if you run a business and want to develop your own digital tools. All you need to access this knowledge is willpower, perseverance... and the right resources. And it all starts by reading this article!
Why learn computer programming?
Programming involves designing and developing applications or software intended for computer use. This process includes several tasks such as analysis, coding, and creating algorithms. In the end, you obtain a function that will be executed by a computer.
Why add this skill to your repertoire?
To find a job or assignments
Almost every company needs computer programmers to write, update, modify, and troubleshoot their main tools or applications. It's no coincidence that, in 2021, 88% companies hired tech profiles.
If there is one field where job offers and gigs abound, it is certainly IT and technology.
To pass on your know-how
Even if you don't hold a coding position, learning computer programming can be useful. Do you work in a research lab? You could take part in developing applications for your organization as well as for other private and government entities.
Similarly, a psychologist who knows how to code could create a mobile app to help patients track their symptoms of depression and anxiety.
To improve the skills related to your work
For a content manager or web writer, computer programming helps master HTML, essential for formatting your articles. SEO and SEA specialists may also need this skill to carry out more advanced website audits to improve their clients' organic search rankings.
To sharpen your analytical thinking
Ask developers — they'll confirm that learning computer programming stimulates cognitive abilities. Besides understanding the logic behind a coded language (whether it's Java, JavaScript, HTML, or Python), you grasp how algorithms work.
That helps sharpen your analytical thinking and your ability to find logical solutions to problems. New skills that are very useful for analyzing your current strategies (marketing, financial, commercial...) and continuously improving them.
The different types of programming languages
A programming language is characterized by a set of instructions written to communicate with computers or smartphones. Its role is to enable the execution of a specific task through a software tool.
Programming languages are present in all the websites, apps, and software you use daily. They vary, each with its own specific features.
Below are the most well-known programming languages:
Python
Python is the first programming language many beginner coders turn to. The reason is simple: its simplified syntax makes it easy to master.
Python comes with several support modules and integration with web services. It is used to develop the server side or backend of an application. You can use it to build deep learning and machine learning tools.
Java
Java is the second most popular programming language after Python. More than 3 billion devices run applications built with this type of code. It is also found on the back end of many popular websites, such as Google, Amazon, Twitter, and YouTube.
It provides an excellent introduction to programming. It is also one of the languages most sought after by companies of all sizes.
JavaScript
If you want to learn computer programming, JavaScript is the perfect language to make your website or application more interactive. It lets you code animations (like hovers, for example) and games. Quite practical if you use gamification in your marketing strategy (or if you want to offer that strategy to your clients).
Although somewhat complex to use, it remains intuitive, flexible, and easy to master once you understand the basics.
HTML and CSS
Technically speaking, HTML and CSS are not programming languages. However, if you are interested in web development, they are the first two pieces of code you will need to learn. You cannot build anything on the web without HTML knowledge.
HTML is used to code the content and structure of web pages. CSS defines the page’s style. Since these two languages do not include the "programming" part, they remain easy to master.
C and C++
C is still the oldest programming language. It is the origin of other programming languages such as Java and JavaScript.
C++ is an improved version of the C language. Today, many developers skip learning C, while others believe it provides an essential foundation for mastering C++. So it's a personal choice that depends on your time…and your goals.
Indeed, both languages are used for developing applications where performance is a critical factor, such as client/server applications, commercial products, and video games.
How to learn computer programming?
For one year of training in computer programming, you must spend between 5,000 and 8,000 euros. This type of training proves useful if you want to make it your full-time profession or position yourself on large-scale projects, such as video game development, for example.
If you prefer to master the basics, sharpen your analytical skills, or add another string to your digital freelance bow, there are free ways to learn to code.
Choosing your programming language
We have just presented the different programming languages and their specificities. It’s up to you to choose the one that matches your needs.
For example, as a beginner, Python is easy to pick up. However, if you want to improve your own website, you will absolutely need to master HTML and CSS.
Take online courses
There are thousands of online courses covering all aspects of programming: from basic HTML to data structures and complex algorithms.
Make sure your first course covers the basics of a language, includes interactive modules and exercises to guide your learning, and is well organized so you can absorb the material in the right order.
We offer a list of sites to learn to code a little further down in this article.
Watch video tutorials
While online courses are perfect for gaining practical experience, online videos can complement your learning and satisfy your curiosity.
Their advantage? They help you progress step by step: from installing an IDE to analyzing source code, and defining the basic concepts of existing languages.
Focus on terms common to all languages:
- Data types
- Variables
- Functions
- Arrays or lists
- If statements
- Loops
- Classes and objects
- Exception handling
Build a project
An effective technique for learning programming is to start a project, even if it remains private. The goal is to practice.
If you like video games, try coding a small game similar to Tetris, Pong, or tic-tac-toe. You can also create a website showcasing your portfolio or about one of your passions (without using a CMS, of course!).
5 sites to learn to code for free
To help you learn programming for free, here are 5 sites offering free courses.
1. freeCodeCamp
freeCodeCamp is a non-profit organization that provides helpful content and resources for programmers and developers. It offers articles, guides, and material to help beginners practice and master coding skills.
You can practice web development with programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. There are many exercises and practical problems you can work on.
2. Codecademy
Codecademy offers interactive sessions in 12 different programming languages, including Python, Java, Go, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, C#, Swift and Sass, as well as the HTML and CSS markup languages.
It has a platform to learn coding, with a set of tasks to complete to move on to the next stage. You can choose the programming language you want and work until you achieve the desired results.
You receive instant feedback, helpful for correcting your mistakes and quickly improving your skills.
3. W3Schools
W3Schools It is a training site to learn computer programming for free. It offers tutorials on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, JSON, PHP, Python, AngularJS, React.js, SQL, Bootstrap, Sass, Node.js, jQuery, XQuery, AJAX, XML, Raspberry Pi, C++, C# and Java.
You also have exercises and courses that other developers or users can join to accelerate their learning.
4. learn-programming.com
learn-programming It mainly uses video to offer computer programming courses. The advantage? The courses are exclusively in French and presented as easy-to-understand tutorials. You progress quickly and independently!
5. Khan Academy
Khan Academy It is also a non-profit educational platform offering video courses and exercises to gain skills in JavaScript, HTML, CSS and SQL. All courses remain completely free, allowing you to easily build additional skills!
Our tip
Choose a learning platform with an engaged community to help you get answers to your questions.
Prefer personalized training to learn computer programming? Post an ad on Codeur to find a web development instructor!
