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best source to learn about coding and programming ?
best source to learn about coding and programming ?
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16 answers
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
Start with something you want to create. Use your imagination. Do you have an iPhone or Android Phone? Perhaps make an app for that. The key here is to have fun and love the process. You'll learn much faster if you enjoy the process. And you'll start to build your portfolio. After you have your first idea, search YouTube for How to build my first App on 'Insert Platform Here'. Watch 2-3 videos on 2x speed. Then think, am I getting what I want out of these videos? Do I know the next step? If not then perhaps try another approach like asking your next question to CoPilot
https://www.bing.com/chat?q=Microsoft+Copilot&FORM=hpcodx .
Follow this process over and over again:
Prerequisite: For learning purposes, pick a coding project that is the most fun possible.
1.) Ask a question to the Internet (e.g., YouTube, CoPilot, Redit etc.)
2.) Reflect on the answer. Do I understand what to do next? Then do it. If not ask a better question.
3.) Do whatever is next and keep doing until you have questions.
4.) Repeat
Prioritize doing over questions. Doing is the best way to learn. Watch videos and read only until you have enough information to do. Then do. Do is better than read.
-John
Start with something you want to create. Use your imagination. Do you have an iPhone or Android Phone? Perhaps make an app for that. The key here is to have fun and love the process. You'll learn much faster if you enjoy the process. And you'll start to build your portfolio. After you have your first idea, search YouTube for How to build my first App on 'Insert Platform Here'. Watch 2-3 videos on 2x speed. Then think, am I getting what I want out of these videos? Do I know the next step? If not then perhaps try another approach like asking your next question to CoPilot
https://www.bing.com/chat?q=Microsoft+Copilot&FORM=hpcodx .
Follow this process over and over again:
Prerequisite: For learning purposes, pick a coding project that is the most fun possible.
1.) Ask a question to the Internet (e.g., YouTube, CoPilot, Redit etc.)
2.) Reflect on the answer. Do I understand what to do next? Then do it. If not ask a better question.
3.) Do whatever is next and keep doing until you have questions.
4.) Repeat
Prioritize doing over questions. Doing is the best way to learn. Watch videos and read only until you have enough information to do. Then do. Do is better than read.
-John
Updated
Theophilus’s Answer
If you’re looking to start learning how to code, W3Schools is a great platform to begin with! You can create a free account, and they’ll guide you step by step with multiple examples, interactive tutorials, and assignments to help you practice. The platform covers a wide range of programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and more. It’s beginner-friendly and provides hands-on experience, so you’ll be able to understand and apply what you learn right away. Plus, it’s a great resource for building a strong foundation in coding.
You can also start with this video. Python: https://youtu.be/_uQrJ0TkZlc?si=2h59f8L86oTWDXcY
Theophilus recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Kajal’s Answer
Hello there,
Starting from the basics on YouTube is a great idea! It's a platform full of knowledge that can help you grow. Don't just watch, but put what you learn into practice. Consider setting up a profile on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode. These platforms are perfect for honing your coding skills. Remember, practice makes perfect. Also, try your hand at creating small projects. Once you're done, upload them to GitHub. It's a fantastic way to showcase your work and progress. Keep going, you're doing great!
Starting from the basics on YouTube is a great idea! It's a platform full of knowledge that can help you grow. Don't just watch, but put what you learn into practice. Consider setting up a profile on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode. These platforms are perfect for honing your coding skills. Remember, practice makes perfect. Also, try your hand at creating small projects. Once you're done, upload them to GitHub. It's a fantastic way to showcase your work and progress. Keep going, you're doing great!
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
The responses thus far have been absolutely fantastic!
When it comes to learning about coding and programming, the most effective approach is to follow your passions. Explore the suggestions provided, but also pay close attention to what ignites your curiosity. Are you a fan of deconstructing things, inventing fresh ideas, tweaking existing ones, teaming up with others, or prefer working independently? Do you appreciate stunning visuals, pure text, or a balance of both? Are you a puzzle enthusiast or do you prefer a predefined list of tasks? All these factors will fuel your motivation to conquer a coding challenge. I highly recommend platforms like Codewars (https://www.codewars.com/). It's a great place to start, grow, and learn. It provides learning opportunities as you progress, and you can gain insights from other users' solutions.
The most valuable resource is a person who inspires you, be it through a blog, a vlog, or their professional output. Follow individuals who motivate you and aim to gradually reach their level of expertise.
When it comes to learning about coding and programming, the most effective approach is to follow your passions. Explore the suggestions provided, but also pay close attention to what ignites your curiosity. Are you a fan of deconstructing things, inventing fresh ideas, tweaking existing ones, teaming up with others, or prefer working independently? Do you appreciate stunning visuals, pure text, or a balance of both? Are you a puzzle enthusiast or do you prefer a predefined list of tasks? All these factors will fuel your motivation to conquer a coding challenge. I highly recommend platforms like Codewars (https://www.codewars.com/). It's a great place to start, grow, and learn. It provides learning opportunities as you progress, and you can gain insights from other users' solutions.
The most valuable resource is a person who inspires you, be it through a blog, a vlog, or their professional output. Follow individuals who motivate you and aim to gradually reach their level of expertise.
Updated
venkat’s Answer
Hello Daniel,
Starting your coding journey with a beginner-friendly language such as Python could be a great idea. There are numerous resources available online for you to learn from. One such resource is YouTube, which is packed with tutorials and lessons.
However, if you're looking for a more structured learning path, platforms like Udemy, Khan Academy, and Coursera can offer comprehensive courses. For instance, you might find this Udemy course on programming fundamentals helpful: https://www.udemy.com/topic/programming-fundamentals/
Additionally, you can enhance your coding skills by taking on challenges. Websites like LeetCode and HackerRank allow you to sign up and practice coding problems. Another platform where you can find a wealth of information and help is Reddit. It's a community-driven site where you can ask questions and share knowledge.
As for books, "Learning Python" by Mark Lutz is a great place to start. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Python-5th-Mark-Lutz/dp/1449355730
For a deeper understanding of programming concepts, "Algorithms and Data Structures" is a recommended read. You can purchase it from this link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/026204630X/
Happy learning!
Starting your coding journey with a beginner-friendly language such as Python could be a great idea. There are numerous resources available online for you to learn from. One such resource is YouTube, which is packed with tutorials and lessons.
However, if you're looking for a more structured learning path, platforms like Udemy, Khan Academy, and Coursera can offer comprehensive courses. For instance, you might find this Udemy course on programming fundamentals helpful: https://www.udemy.com/topic/programming-fundamentals/
Additionally, you can enhance your coding skills by taking on challenges. Websites like LeetCode and HackerRank allow you to sign up and practice coding problems. Another platform where you can find a wealth of information and help is Reddit. It's a community-driven site where you can ask questions and share knowledge.
As for books, "Learning Python" by Mark Lutz is a great place to start. You can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Python-5th-Mark-Lutz/dp/1449355730
For a deeper understanding of programming concepts, "Algorithms and Data Structures" is a recommended read. You can purchase it from this link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/026204630X/
Happy learning!
Updated
Vrushali’s Answer
There are plenty of great resources to learn coding and programming! Choose a resource that fits your learning style, and don’t hesitate to mix and match!
Here are some options:
Community College courses:
Check out your local community college to see which course options are available for you, depending on your timing preferences.
Certifications:
Explore formal training paths for certifications such as:
Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate: Focuses on developing applications and services on the Azure platform.
Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE: Validates proficiency in Java programming.
IBM Certified Developer – Cloud Application Developer: Focuses on cloud application development skills.
pecialized Programming Languages
AWS Certified Developer – Associate: Validates skills in developing applications on the AWS platform.
Python Institute Certifications (PCEP, PCAP, etc.): Offers various levels of Python certifications.
Online Courses:
Coursera: Offers courses from universities and companies (e.g., Stanford, Google).
edX: Similar to Coursera, with a wide range of programming courses.
Udemy: A variety of affordable courses on specific languages and technologies.
Interactive Platforms:
Codecademy: Hands-on coding exercises across multiple languages.
freeCodeCamp: A comprehensive curriculum with projects that help you learn by doing.
Khan Academy: Great for beginners, with interactive coding lessons.
Books:
Depending on which programming language you are interested in, a google search will reveal some of the best selling books on that language.
Documentation and Tutorials:
Official documentation: Always refer to the official documentation for languages like Python, Java, or Ruby. They usually offer tutorials as well/
Community and Forums:
Reddit: Subreddits like r/learnprogramming can provide guidance and resources.
YouTube Channels:
You will find several programming channels on YouTube such as:
freeCodeCamp.org: Provides full-length courses on various programming topics, often with hands-on projects.
Traversy Media: Covers web development and programming concepts.
The Net Ninja: Offers tutorials on various programming languages and frameworks.
Practice Platforms:
LeetCode: Good for practicing coding interview questions.
HackerRank: Offers challenges in various domains of computer science.
Choose a resource that fits your learning style, and don’t hesitate to mix and match! Hope this helps
Here are some options:
Community College courses:
Check out your local community college to see which course options are available for you, depending on your timing preferences.
Certifications:
Explore formal training paths for certifications such as:
Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate: Focuses on developing applications and services on the Azure platform.
Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE: Validates proficiency in Java programming.
IBM Certified Developer – Cloud Application Developer: Focuses on cloud application development skills.
pecialized Programming Languages
AWS Certified Developer – Associate: Validates skills in developing applications on the AWS platform.
Python Institute Certifications (PCEP, PCAP, etc.): Offers various levels of Python certifications.
Online Courses:
Coursera: Offers courses from universities and companies (e.g., Stanford, Google).
edX: Similar to Coursera, with a wide range of programming courses.
Udemy: A variety of affordable courses on specific languages and technologies.
Interactive Platforms:
Codecademy: Hands-on coding exercises across multiple languages.
freeCodeCamp: A comprehensive curriculum with projects that help you learn by doing.
Khan Academy: Great for beginners, with interactive coding lessons.
Books:
Depending on which programming language you are interested in, a google search will reveal some of the best selling books on that language.
Documentation and Tutorials:
Official documentation: Always refer to the official documentation for languages like Python, Java, or Ruby. They usually offer tutorials as well/
Community and Forums:
Reddit: Subreddits like r/learnprogramming can provide guidance and resources.
YouTube Channels:
You will find several programming channels on YouTube such as:
freeCodeCamp.org: Provides full-length courses on various programming topics, often with hands-on projects.
Traversy Media: Covers web development and programming concepts.
The Net Ninja: Offers tutorials on various programming languages and frameworks.
Practice Platforms:
LeetCode: Good for practicing coding interview questions.
HackerRank: Offers challenges in various domains of computer science.
Choose a resource that fits your learning style, and don’t hesitate to mix and match! Hope this helps
Caitlyn Allan
Solution Consultant - Security Operations
9
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Caitlyn’s Answer
Hello Daniel,
I highly recommend giving Codecademy a try. They offer a multitude of free introductory courses that I've personally found to be extremely beneficial in the past.
After you've gotten a good grasp on the language, Leetcode is an excellent platform for honing your skills, regardless of your proficiency level.
Don't forget about Stack Overflow as well. It's an incredible reservoir of knowledge and a fantastic resource.
I highly recommend giving Codecademy a try. They offer a multitude of free introductory courses that I've personally found to be extremely beneficial in the past.
After you've gotten a good grasp on the language, Leetcode is an excellent platform for honing your skills, regardless of your proficiency level.
Don't forget about Stack Overflow as well. It's an incredible reservoir of knowledge and a fantastic resource.
Updated
James’s Answer
Here's a friendly suggestion for you: why not start learning a programming language? Python could be a great choice for beginners. After you've decided on a language, there are numerous free resources available to help you get started, like YouTube tutorials or courses on Khan Academy. You can begin by creating simple programs. For instance, imagine you want to organize your study materials in alphabetical order, you could write a program to do just that!
As you progress and head off to college, you might find yourself drawn towards a major in computer science. This field will provide you with a deeper understanding of why certain coding practices are recommended and others are not, and will give you a comprehensive understanding of how things work. I personally had a great experience with the operating systems course I took. It gave me insights into why operating systems function the way they do, and helped me understand what's logical and what's not.
As you progress and head off to college, you might find yourself drawn towards a major in computer science. This field will provide you with a deeper understanding of why certain coding practices are recommended and others are not, and will give you a comprehensive understanding of how things work. I personally had a great experience with the operating systems course I took. It gave me insights into why operating systems function the way they do, and helped me understand what's logical and what's not.
Updated
Vicente’s Answer
There are several great sources to learn coding and programming, depending on your learning style and goals. Here are som
1. Interactive Learning Platforms:
freeCodeCamp: Offers free, project-based learning in web development, data science, and more.
Codecademy: Provides interactive lessons in various programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and more.
LeetCode: Focuses on coding problems and challenges, ideal for preparing for technical interviews.
Exercism: Offers exercises in various programming languages with community feedback.
2. Online Course Platforms:
Udemy: Offers a wide variety of programming courses on topics from beginner to advanced.
Coursera: Provides courses from universities like Stanford and MIT, covering computer science and programming fundamentals.
edX: Similar to Coursera, offers free and paid programming courses from top universities.
3. Documentation and Official Tutorials:
MDN Web Docs: The best resource for learning web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Python Documentation: For learning Python directly from its official site.
Go by Example: For learning Go with practical examples.
4. Books:
"You Don’t Know JS" (Kyle Simpson): A deep dive into JavaScript.
"Eloquent JavaScript" (Marijn Haverbeke): A great book for learning JavaScript.
"Clean Code" (Robert C. Martin): Focuses on best coding practices and writing maintainable code.
"The Pragmatic Programmer" (Andrew Hunt & David Thomas): For general software development principles.
5. YouTube Channels:
Traversy Media: Great tutorials on web development.
The Coding Train: Engaging tutorials on creative coding.
Tech With Tim: Python and game development tutorials.
Learning programming can feel challenging at times, but every step you take brings you closer to mastering an incredibly valuable skill. Don’t worry if things seem hard at first—everyone starts somewhere! With patience, curiosity, and persistence, you’ll see progress and find joy in solving problems and creating things from scratch.
Remember, programming is not about knowing everything from the beginning, but about learning how to think through problems and continuously improving. Celebrate the small wins, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re part of the process! Keep pushing forward, and before you know it, you’ll be building things you once thought were impossible. You've got this!
1. Interactive Learning Platforms:
freeCodeCamp: Offers free, project-based learning in web development, data science, and more.
Codecademy: Provides interactive lessons in various programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and more.
LeetCode: Focuses on coding problems and challenges, ideal for preparing for technical interviews.
Exercism: Offers exercises in various programming languages with community feedback.
2. Online Course Platforms:
Udemy: Offers a wide variety of programming courses on topics from beginner to advanced.
Coursera: Provides courses from universities like Stanford and MIT, covering computer science and programming fundamentals.
edX: Similar to Coursera, offers free and paid programming courses from top universities.
3. Documentation and Official Tutorials:
MDN Web Docs: The best resource for learning web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Python Documentation: For learning Python directly from its official site.
Go by Example: For learning Go with practical examples.
4. Books:
"You Don’t Know JS" (Kyle Simpson): A deep dive into JavaScript.
"Eloquent JavaScript" (Marijn Haverbeke): A great book for learning JavaScript.
"Clean Code" (Robert C. Martin): Focuses on best coding practices and writing maintainable code.
"The Pragmatic Programmer" (Andrew Hunt & David Thomas): For general software development principles.
5. YouTube Channels:
Traversy Media: Great tutorials on web development.
The Coding Train: Engaging tutorials on creative coding.
Tech With Tim: Python and game development tutorials.
Learning programming can feel challenging at times, but every step you take brings you closer to mastering an incredibly valuable skill. Don’t worry if things seem hard at first—everyone starts somewhere! With patience, curiosity, and persistence, you’ll see progress and find joy in solving problems and creating things from scratch.
Remember, programming is not about knowing everything from the beginning, but about learning how to think through problems and continuously improving. Celebrate the small wins, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re part of the process! Keep pushing forward, and before you know it, you’ll be building things you once thought were impossible. You've got this!
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Hello there! I'm Adit, a seasoned professional with over 8 years of experience in the software industry, including 6 exciting years at Microsoft. I'm absolutely thrilled to guide enthusiastic learners like you on your journey into the world of coding and programming!
Embarking on the path to programming mastery involves more than just learning a language's syntax. It's about grasping the fundamental concepts such as data structures and algorithms that empower you to tackle real-world problems effectively and lay a robust foundation for your future career. Here's a roadmap to kickstart your coding adventure:
1. Select Your First Programming Language
Begin your journey with an easy-to-learn language like Python or JavaScript. These languages boast large user communities, abundant resources, and are excellent for grasping the basics of coding. Once you've gained confidence, you can explore more intricate languages like C++ or Java, which are integral to competitive programming and large-scale applications.
2. Dive into Data Structures and Algorithms
Data structures (like arrays, linked lists, and trees) and algorithms (like sorting, searching, and graph traversal) form the backbone of problem-solving in programming. They enable you to streamline your code and increase the speed of your programs. Websites like GeeksforGeeks, LeetCode, and HackerRank provide a wealth of problem sets and tutorials to hone these concepts.
3. Get Your Hands Dirty with Coding Practice
FreeCodeCamp and Codecademy: These platforms provide comprehensive, step-by-step tutorials on a variety of programming languages and concepts.
LeetCode and Codeforces: Once you've mastered the basics, put your skills to the test by solving real coding problems. These platforms are also fantastic for brushing up your skills for coding interviews.
4. Learn by Doing with Project-Based Learning
Apply your newfound knowledge by building your own projects. Be it a basic calculator app, a website, or a game, working on tangible projects will help cement your skills. Showcase your projects on GitHub, which could also serve as a portfolio for future job applications.
5. Engage with Learning Communities
Immerse yourself in coding communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit’s programming threads, or GitHub communities. These platforms allow you to ask questions, share your projects, and glean insights from fellow learners.
6. Maintain Consistency and Foster Curiosity
Coding can be a tough nut to crack at times, but perseverance pays off. Embrace your mistakes—they're stepping stones in your learning journey. Keep the momentum going and practice regularly.
Best of luck on your coding expedition! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any queries or need additional resources.
Embarking on the path to programming mastery involves more than just learning a language's syntax. It's about grasping the fundamental concepts such as data structures and algorithms that empower you to tackle real-world problems effectively and lay a robust foundation for your future career. Here's a roadmap to kickstart your coding adventure:
1. Select Your First Programming Language
Begin your journey with an easy-to-learn language like Python or JavaScript. These languages boast large user communities, abundant resources, and are excellent for grasping the basics of coding. Once you've gained confidence, you can explore more intricate languages like C++ or Java, which are integral to competitive programming and large-scale applications.
2. Dive into Data Structures and Algorithms
Data structures (like arrays, linked lists, and trees) and algorithms (like sorting, searching, and graph traversal) form the backbone of problem-solving in programming. They enable you to streamline your code and increase the speed of your programs. Websites like GeeksforGeeks, LeetCode, and HackerRank provide a wealth of problem sets and tutorials to hone these concepts.
3. Get Your Hands Dirty with Coding Practice
FreeCodeCamp and Codecademy: These platforms provide comprehensive, step-by-step tutorials on a variety of programming languages and concepts.
LeetCode and Codeforces: Once you've mastered the basics, put your skills to the test by solving real coding problems. These platforms are also fantastic for brushing up your skills for coding interviews.
4. Learn by Doing with Project-Based Learning
Apply your newfound knowledge by building your own projects. Be it a basic calculator app, a website, or a game, working on tangible projects will help cement your skills. Showcase your projects on GitHub, which could also serve as a portfolio for future job applications.
5. Engage with Learning Communities
Immerse yourself in coding communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit’s programming threads, or GitHub communities. These platforms allow you to ask questions, share your projects, and glean insights from fellow learners.
6. Maintain Consistency and Foster Curiosity
Coding can be a tough nut to crack at times, but perseverance pays off. Embrace your mistakes—they're stepping stones in your learning journey. Keep the momentum going and practice regularly.
Best of luck on your coding expedition! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any queries or need additional resources.
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
If you're interested in coding for a particular platform, let's say Salesforce, a really amazing learning platform is Trailhead. https://trailhead.salesforce.com/
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
If you're interested in coding for a particular platform, let's say Salesforce, a really amazing learning platform is Trailhead.
Updated
Robert’s Answer
It's great that you have an interest to learn code and programming. If you're a beginner, then your first decision is what type of programming/code you'd like to learn. As the types of programming languages are different if you'd like to be a software, app, or website developer. I have the most experience with website development, so I'll lend my advice to that sector of programming, although there may be some overlap between development types.
Again, if you're starting out as a beginner, then learning the basic programming languages are going to be your starting point. This includes HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Most frontend design work can be done in straight HTML, but CSS helps with constructing classes for your code, thereby saving you a lot of time with writing tons of manual HTML. And then JavaScript will add functional moving parts or elements to your website, although it's the most tricky of the three basic languages to learn.
A great resource for learning the basics of web programming are online courses, bootcamp academies, YouTube videos and websites like w3schools.com. They have a tremendous amount of tutorials for most programming languages and server as a great launching point for any type of programmer. Hope that helps!
Again, if you're starting out as a beginner, then learning the basic programming languages are going to be your starting point. This includes HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Most frontend design work can be done in straight HTML, but CSS helps with constructing classes for your code, thereby saving you a lot of time with writing tons of manual HTML. And then JavaScript will add functional moving parts or elements to your website, although it's the most tricky of the three basic languages to learn.
A great resource for learning the basics of web programming are online courses, bootcamp academies, YouTube videos and websites like w3schools.com. They have a tremendous amount of tutorials for most programming languages and server as a great launching point for any type of programmer. Hope that helps!
Updated
Jason’s Answer
The best way to learn is by actually doing. There are many paid/free resources online but there are also books that allow you to teach yourself. Community Colleges also offer very in-expensive non-credit training classes. Start with a simple and easy to learn language such as python and then you can branch out to others.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have interest in progressing.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Pick a simple programming language to start, eg python, scratch, etc
2. Find out the language structure and syntax. There are plenty of information online.
3. Start doing some simple programming. Then, you can try to do simple projects, eg, control a toy car, robotic arm, etc
4. You can learn a new one after you have familiar with one language
I strongly recommend you take computer science course in college. You learn the computing theories and more programming skills.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Pick a simple programming language to start, eg python, scratch, etc
2. Find out the language structure and syntax. There are plenty of information online.
3. Start doing some simple programming. Then, you can try to do simple projects, eg, control a toy car, robotic arm, etc
4. You can learn a new one after you have familiar with one language
I strongly recommend you take computer science course in college. You learn the computing theories and more programming skills.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Devin Warrington-Brown
Software Engineer + Expert Music Producer & Mix Engineer
5
Answers
Stanford, California
Updated
Devin’s Answer
There are several free tools for learning about coding and programming! Some educational entry-level websites include LeetCode, Code.org, and Khan Academy. They can teach a variety of beginner-friendly languages like Python and Java. Harvard also has a free YouTube series titled CS50, allowing you to conceptualize programming lessons rather than solely coding.