When trying to choose the best coding languages for beginners, it may seem like a good idea for amateur coders to start with the easiest programming languages. However, “easy” is subjective because some people find it more convenient to program in a language that reads like everyday speech (Python), while others would rather code using a language based on math (C++).
Even if you’re in a non-tech field, learning some basic coding skills can benefit your business and your professional growth. If you are trying to advance your career by learning how to code—or dream of one day launching a tech startup of your own—make sure you understand your abilities and interests because you’ll spend a lot of time learning a programming language. Before you begin your journey, you should determine which coding language is most suitable for your career goals and your interests.
To that end, let’s take a look at some popular choices of the best coding languages for beginners so you can decide which language is best for your needs.
Beginner-friendly programming languages and tools
The usefulness of different programming languages depends on their different use cases, such as data science, web development, or game development. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular languages and tools for different functions:
JavaScript
This scripting language has always been in demand. It is a flexible and dynamic object-focused programming language that derives its syntax from the C Language.
However, please don’t confuse it with Java! While Java is a coding language, JavaScript is a scripting language useful for all things web development. It is comparatively easy to learn for most, and you can run it on every single platform or any browser to quickly start learning.
According to Stack Overflow’s 2020 Developer survey, JavaScript is the most widely used programming language among developers for the eighth year in a row. Nearly 70% of respondents revealed that they had leveraged JavaScript in the previous year.
If you aim to build apps, websites, games, or anything else for the web, keep JavaScript on your list to learn. An experienced freelance web developer can charge at least $40 to $60 an hour, so this could be a lucrative career move.
Python
This is one of the most commonly used high-level programming languages. It is readable, straightforward, and requires less coding to express a function compared to other languages. There is less emphasis on syntax than in some languages, so it suits beginners very well. As a result, it is a suitable stepping stone to learn other object-focused languages.
What’s even better is that it is free and open source, and a myriad of documentation, videos, and tools are available to help you learn Python. Python is often a first language learned by coding newbies and even children.
Ruby
Ruby is another object-oriented and dynamic scripting language specifically used in the creation of mobile applications and websites. Similar to Python, Ruby is readable and straightforward to learn and deploy. Typically, it is focused on web-based applications, but Ruby also powers the web framework for giant sites, including Groupon, GitHub, and Twitter.
The official website of Ruby has plenty of resources to help you learn the language. Its 20-minute start guide is easy to read, and a relatively large community of programmers is available online to address any questions. Moreover, you can find a lot of documentation and significant resources online to help you expedite the learning process.
Java
Java is a popular programming language released in 1995 with the motto, “Write Once, Run Anywhere.” It is an object-oriented, class-based language designed to be convenient for the user. This means that you can find Java on all operating systems, devices, and platforms.
Java has been in use for a long time, so you can find some fantastic resources online to help you learn and practice this language. It’s a good choice for beginners because you can quickly get answers to any question you may have in the Java community. You can also find great editors and tool kits that will spot any errors in your code straightaway.
Java programming is a highly sought-after skill, so choosing this language can open many opportunities in terms of work.
Blockly
Blockly is a visual basic language program that is available free of cost. As a user, you can learn to write programs by setting blocks together to develop simple functions. Every visual object can also be a code object.
The primary goal of Blockly is to produce readable code in Python or JavaScript, etc. And once beginners have grasped the basic blocks, they can move on to more complex programs. Its simple drag-and-drop functionality can help you build applications relatively quickly. Then, you can export the generated code and apply it to the existing programming languages.
Blockly is a valuable program for learners who are a bit overwhelmed by other languages or who want to build applications without fully mastering any one language. This makes it a good solution for small businesses that don’t necessarily have the funds to hire or train whole development teams.
C#
C# is an object-oriented, general-purpose language built on the fundamentals of C. Originally, Microsoft designed it as a part of the .NET framework to create Windows applications.
Mobile developers use this language to build cross-platform applications. In addition, if you are interested in VR development, C# is a great way to learn. It is also the recommended programming language to build 2D and 3D video games.
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Choosing the best programming language to start with
Now that you understand what the best coding languages for beginners are and why there are so many of them, there is yet another question that you’ll ask next: which programming language should you opt for?
Fortunately, there is a pretty straightforward way to answer this. Not all of these languages will meet a company or developer’s requirements. The simple fact is that some coding languages are better suited for specific tasks than others, so you need to think of your end goals and which of the languages can help you achieve those.
- What type of development process or programming job do you aim to work in?
- What are the job posting requirements in your area?
- What kind of apps/games do you want to create?
Once you consider these factors, go for a programming language that serves a specific purpose. For example, if your objective is to create a professional website, then CSS, HTML, and JavaScript are your best options. Still, some developers just want a program to help them build an app or website quickly. In this case, a tool like Blockly comes in handy.
In contrast, some developers require a coding language that allows for granular control. Many users consider C++ one of the most potent ways to assert control on systems, threads, and memory. C# or C++ are also well liked in the booming gaming industry.
Languages like Python, on the other hand, are great general-purpose languages for coders who want an intermediate command over all kinds of programming. Python has tons of plugins and packages for things like data science, machine learning, and more.
Once you choose your language, there are many avenues to learn programming, such as online courses, coding boot camps, and daily exercises. Decide how much time you have to dedicate to learning and then invest in anything from a several-month intensive bootcamp to a free “100 Days of Python” challenge. No matter what, coding skills will benefit you in your professional development and your mental flexibility.
Finding the best coding languages for beginners
The bottom line is, there are multiple great coding languages for beginners out there because different problems demand different tools. Each coding language has particular characteristics and features that make it appropriate for developers to manage specific tasks.
Several considerations come into play when selecting the best programming language for you. Choose one that appeals to your learning style, aligns with your existing skills, and inspires you to create. Make programming a part of your daily routine so you can dedicate a few minutes a day to learning the language of your choice.
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