Learn How To Code

Published 3/9/2020

Websites, apps, computers, phones, game consoles, and games all contain software that allows them function. Software is made from code. Whether or not you want to code, I believe it is worth trying out as it will broaden your critical thinking. Follow these steps below to get started on coding.

1. Download a Text Editor

Text Editors are fundamental programming tools used for creating computer programs. I’ve used several over time and my favorite so far is Visual Studio Code.

2. Pick A Programming Language

There are PLENTY of programming languages. For beginners, I recommend starting with one that’s easy to comprehend, like Python or JavaScript.

3. Download & Install It

For installation instructions, I recommend searching Google “How to install LANGUAGE HERE“. Each language may have different versions. Installing the latest release is recommended.

Head over to the Official Python Website and select the release for your operating system.

4. Learn The Syntax & Semantics

In order to produce software, you must understand the syntax and semantics of the language you chose. Below are two programs written in two different languages. The syntax is different for both, but they both produce the same result.

NOTE:In Python statements are not ended with semicolons (;). Ending it with semicolons will cause an error. The code snippet on instagram has incorrect syntax. Please forgive as it was my first microblog.

Python

x = 6
y = 4
sum = x + y

print("x plus y equals", sum)
# OUTPUT: x plus y equals 10

JavaScript

x = 6;
y = 4;
sum = x + y;

console.log("x plus y equals", sum);
// OUTPUT: x plus y equals 10

Syntax: The grammatical structure of the language

Semantics: The meaning of the structure

5. Learn The Concepts

These concepts are fundamental and the more you know, the more efficient you’ll be! These concepts can be applied when you’re coding in any language. Learn once, apply everywhere!

  • Variables
  • Data Types
  • Functions
  • Conditional Statements
  • Loops / Recursion
  • Inheritance and Polymorphism
  • Abstraction and Encapsulation
  • Data Structures and Algorithms

Questions For You

What programming language will you learn? What language did you learn first?

2020 © Byron Jenkins