What’s the Best Programming Language to Learn First?

Go to google and search for “list of programming languages”.

Your Jaw Will Drop! When you see the results Google will present you with. You’ll find hundreds of programming languages that are in use today and I only mean all the recorded ones.

There are programming languages yet to be recorded or are only created for an organization’s specific purpose, security measure and confidentiality. Most certainly we expect to see the list to grow in the near future.

But, the major question as a beginner to programming rises here. Which one would be the best to learn at first?

There is no right answer, of course. For a beginner who just stepped into the world of programming, you need to do some homework before choosing a specific programming language. It’s exactly like learning to bake. You don’t start baking a cake on the first day, you start by getting to know the baking tools. Just take baby steps and build bases while sharpening your skills and interest in logic.

Here are some programming languages suitable for the beginners as well as holds a valuable position in the world of programming languages. They have rich tutorials which will guide you to learn more quickly.

Python

If you are trying to learn to program and you don’t know what to do or you are only trying it as a hobby then, this will be the best option for you. Python is regarded as the best programming language for the beginners and easiest to learn while still getting a grasp of programming style and structure. It’s simple yet has tremendous application areas: scientific analysis, technical and academic field i.e. Artificial Intelligence. You can build a website using Django, a popular Python web framework. YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify are built with Python.

Tutorial

PHP

PHP (Personal Homepage or Hypertext Preprocessor) is one of the well-known programming languages. PHP is considered as easy and downright ugly, without any structure. However, it is simple and preferable for many to build a small website and web applications. PHP has a vast community with lots of active members. WordPress, Flickr, and Wikipedia are some websites that are built with PHP.

Tutorial

C

C is one of the oldest and the most powerful programming language. C is known as Lingua Franca of programming language. It is also most widely used programming language around the globe. C is taught in colleges because it gives the perfect structure of programming style. If you are thinking about doing programming for a long-run, I would recommend starting your journey with C. It has everything as most operating system and hardware operate through C.

Tutorial

C++

C++ is a complex version of C with additional features. If you are looking for a challenge, go ahead and test your skill while learning C++. If you are really serious about taking it as first programming experience then, please have a mentor to guide you. It is said that learning C++ is like learning how to manufacture, assemble and drive a car at once. C++ is widely used for developing games, industrial and performance critical applications.

Tutorial

JavaScript

One of my favorites, JavaScript is most popular client-side web scripting language. Also, a must learn for the front-end web developer. JavaScript is smooth, fast, and mesmerizing. If you are looking for excitement and a good career in global IT market, I would recommend JavaScript. Currently, it is becoming one of the hottest programming languages due to its increasing popularity as a server-side language (node.js). PayPal and front end of a majority of websites use JavaScript.

Tutorial

Java

“Java and JavaScript are similar like car and carpet are similar”- Greg Hewgill

Java holds its position as the in-demand programming language. It is very popular for all platforms, operating systems, and devices due to its portability. It is also one of the highest paying programming languages in the world. It has a slogan: “Write once, work everywhere”. Java programmers’ community is huge and ever ready to help beginners to start the learning process. Gmail, Minecraft, most Android apps and enterprise level application are all built with the help of java.

Tutorial

C#

C# is developed by Microsoft itself for creating the windows application. A popular choice for enterprises to create websites and windows application using “.Net framework”. It is secure and has a great architecture for implementation and maintenance. C# is similar to Java in basic syntax and many other features but is not portable as Java. C# is platform dependent and needs other software as middleware to communicate with other platforms. Enterprise and windows applications are built with C# as a base language.

Tutorial

Ruby

Ruby is mostly known for its popular web framework, Ruby on Rails. Ruby alone has many limitations but RoR is strong and makes it powerful. It is easy to learn and focuses on getting things done. It was designed for fun and productive coding. So, if you are looking at programming as more of a hobby, please try Ruby. I assure you, you will have some fun time with it. It is best for personal projects and startups and rapid application development. Hulu, Groupon, and SlideShare are built with Ruby.

Tutorial

Here’s a nice infographic to make your decision more easier.

Image Source

To wrap it all up, remember that each programming language comes with its own perks and specialties. They have their own shortcomings too. Whatever you choose to learn at first, learn it with passion and sincerity.

Also, don’t expect to become an expert at programming overnight. It takes years of dedication, hard work and overcoming challenges to be an expert at anything. Be patient, be curious and keep on learning something new every day and eventually you’ll be able to grow your abilities as a programmer.

About the Author

Sagun Karanjit works as an Associate Software Engineer at Leapfrog Technology, Inc.

sagunji (Sagun Karanjit)