Do you like problem-solving? As a child, have you ever wondered how computer games were made? Have you wondered how our phones can do so many complex tasks easily? Do you wonder how FoodPanda works? Coding is the logic behind all these magical activities that are done using computers and mobiles. In simple words, coding is the language using which we humans communicate with machines and accomplish our tasks.
In the 21st century, increasing demand and development of technology has increased the need for coding. At present knowledge of coding is necessary in all kinds of fields be it business, science, research, or data security.
Things to know before learning Coding?
- Learning coding is easy if someone is passionate and consistent, otherwise, this journey of coding can be boring and challenging as it demands a lot of time commitment.
- New technologies develop every day so to sustain in the market one will need to upskill regularly.
- Coding helps one to build problem-solving skills and analytical skills.
- Coding can open doors to many high-paying jobs and give a financially secure life.
How to start coding?
Determine why you want to learn to code:
Coding is a multi-purpose skill. Under computer science, there are many distinct sorts of industries with a variety of coding-related jobs that demand diverse skill sets. One must be certain of their objective and the routes to get there before beginning a journey. You must reserve a flight that goes to Switzerland if you wish to travel there; you cannot get to Switzerland by taking a flight to Korea. Similarly, you must first understand why you want to learn to code. It might be that you want to learn to code to become a developer, that you want to design a project for your institution, or that you simply want to improve your skills.
Select a coding language:
After choosing why you want to learn coding you should select the language that you want to master. Many people get confused about which coding language they should pick. But there is nothing to worry about as it doesn’t matter which coding language is chosen. But one must start coding. After getting skilled in one language one can easily catch the basics of other languages. The fundamental concept of coding is the same in all languages. However, as a beginner, one should choose a language whose syntax is as easy as the English language, the fastest to learn, and
has fewer lines of code. And all these benefits can be gained from the Python programming language.
Depending on the interested fields some programming languages that can be learned:
- Placement- java, c++
- Ios apps- swift
- Android apps- java kotlin
- Websites- frontend(HTML, CSS.javascript); backend(nodejs, PHP)
- Data science- Python, R, Matlab
- App development- C++, c#(C sharp)
- Software development- Java, C Sharp, golang
- General purpose language- Python, javascript
Set up the development environment:
Next, you should install the necessary software and tools (text editor or IDE). Moreover, Ensure that you have a compiler or interpreter if required. All necessary software can be easily downloaded over the Internet.
Learn the basics:
Without learning the alphabet, basic sentence-making structures or grammar you cannot write an essay in English. Similarly, to learn coding, one needs to learn the basic terms and their applications. The most basic concepts of coding are variables, if-else conditions, loops, arrays, functions, etc. Over time it is also necessary to learn to think like a coder. All over the internet, many free resources are used in which one can learn the basics of coding.
Some of them are:
Books Recommendations:
- “Computer programming by Tamim Shahriar Subeen
- “Habluder Jonya Programming” by Jhankar Mahbub
Website Recommendations:
- www.programiz.com
- www.geeksforgeeks.org
YouTube Channels Recommendations:
- Crash Course Computer Science
- Apna College
- Anisul Islam
Online Course Recommendations:
- freeCodeCamp,
- Harvard’s acclaimed Introduction to Computer Science course on edx and CS50 YouTube Channel,
Make Projects:
Projects are proof of the level of skill one has in coding. It’s the application of knowledge of coding in solving practical problems. At first, one must try to accomplish simple projects like making a calculator, alarm clock, easy games, etc. Projects are a must for entry-level programming jobs. Moreover, to build a portfolio and to make a strong resume, these projects should be uploaded to Github.
One needs to remember that while coding many times they will feel like they are stuck, but they should not give up. Rather they should try to get help from different websites like Stackoverflow, Quora, Reddit, etc. In these platforms, other coders submit their problems and solutions. One needs to be self-driven on this journey. Moreover, there is no alternative to Practice. Reading books and watching videos will only be useful if you start to code. One of the most magical things about coding is that it will help you bring your ideas to life. So, start now.
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Writer,
Sumaiya Islam Sonali
Intern,
Content Writing Department, YSSE