Any programmers out there?

Newbie programmer seeks recommendations for a "starter" programming language.

I've extensively used some scripting based languages in the past (i.e. WinBatch, Visual Dialog Script) and had a lot of fun with them, but there's only so far one can go with those systems. I was hoping to try my hand at some more serious programming but don't know where to start. I can remember having read (years ago) numerous accounts of programmers saying things like "Gee, I wish I wouldn't have started with language X. It would have been better to start programming with language Y", and other similar statements. I'd rather not have to say the same thing in a few years, after realizing that I'd approached the whole matter bassackwards. Mind you, I'm not looking to become a commercial programmer or anything of that nature. I just like writing relatively uncomplicated apps for myself, family and friends.

Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks

 

*Raises hand*

Note: I am not mentioning scripting languages because they aren't really programming languages.

I would say start with c, because a lot of what is used today evolved from it. C isn't an easy language to grasp though, at least it wasn't for me.

I started with Java myself (after taking and forgetting a c class). Python I have been told is a good starting place too.

Since Java, I have included C#, VB.NET, and Objective-c.

When starting out, you don't want what is the easiest language to use, but the one that will make it easier for you to understand others. For instance, going from VB, which is easier, to something like Objective-c, would be like pulling teeth--very painful and bloody.


That is why starting with c is probably a good idea (it is a functional language). Then consider c++, or if you want something higher level, Java, and other OOP languages.

 

Yea, I was afraid you were going to say that..... but would have been disappointed if you had not. I really want to learn the nuts and bolts of programming and if C is the way to get there, then C it is. I'd purchased a "Teach Yourself C Programming" book a few years ago but found it far too difficult to grasp on my own. I just had too many questions. My best bet is probably to enroll in a college course (Univ of Michigan only 30 minute drive).

In any case, thanks for taking the time to respond. I appreciate it

 

Don't be afraid to grab a Dummies book. They are down to earth and easy to understand. Note: I understood c better after learning java, so if nothing else, start there. I still have a hard time with c though, which slows down my learning of obj-c.

 

Also, take a look here:

http://thenewboston.org/tutorials.php

These are some pretty useful tutorials that can get you started.

 

Thanks for the link. Looks like a great place to start.

 

Best of luck to you.

The hard part is getting started. Once you get over that hump, it all becomes a lot easier.

Don't be afraid to post questions as they arise.

 

I thought you were joking about the "for dummies" programming book but I checked out Amazon.com and learned that there is a whole series of "for dummies" books in every flavor of programming you can think of. I ordered two. Watch out hump, here I come!

 

Nope, no joke, LOL. I own a few (5) myself in various languages.