Best Programming Languages for Beginners

Difficulty depends on syntax (readability, simplicity, conciseness), abstraction level, and resources, and all these factors should be considered to help make the initiation process easier. For aspiring developers, it’s a good idea to start with a more straightforward coding language that allows them to build confidence and skills quickly.

5 easiest programming languages for beginners

Programming fundamentally enables machines to follow instructions, making more services digitized. As a result, there’s been a significant rise in demand for developers. So, now’s the time to learn how to code, and these languages are a fantastic place to start:

HTML

HTML stands for Hyper Text Markup and is the foundation of most web pages, making it the second most-used coding language in the world. It’s used to instruct web browsers how to display a web page, allowing users to create websites, define web element structures and appearance, just to name but a few. This is a great language for aspiring developers as it uses minimal syntax and provides an understanding of the basics of coding.

CSS

CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets and 95% of all the world’s websites use it. While HTML defines a web page structure, CSS controls its appearance and styling, like colors and font. It’s a language supported by most browsers that ensures mobile responsiveness, enhances website performance, and more. Additionally, it is relatively easy to understand since it uses simple syntax, basic rules, reusable stylesheets, and excellent documentation.

Python

Python is a cross-platform and open-source programming language originally released in 1991. It’s one of the most popular worldwide and is used in machine learning, website building, database system connections, and so one. With a versatile and easily readable language, large and resourceful community, and plenty of learning courses, Python is an excellent choice for beginners.

JavaScript

JavaScript takes us back to 1995 when Brendan Eich developed the programming language to make webpages more dynamic and less static. Element animation, pop menus, multimedia control, and automatic content updates are examples of what this language grants.

JavaScript has also matured over time, being used for programming tasks like backend development for databases and server-side rendering. It’s possible to learn JavaScript’s fundamentals in a matter of months as it’s versatile, uses simple syntax, doesn’t require prior programming knowledge, and has abundant resources.

Ruby

Ruby is an object-oriented programming (OOP) language revolving around data and objects instead of functions and logic. It’s mainly used in static site generation, DevOps, web development and scraping, and automation. Ruby is a syntax-friendly language, free from unnecessary punctuation, and comes with an interactive console (IRB) to test code in real time. Moreover, it’s open source and has a rich collection of tools, frameworks, and gems (pre-made blocks of code), which allow beginners to grasp the language’s basics in a couple of months.

5 easiest programming languages for game development

Programming is at the core of game development and the advancements made in this field in the last three decades are astonishing. Contrasting with the misconception that game creation is limited to programming experts and engineers, it’s possible to start designing without having spent an eternity studying. Still, some languages more suitable for game development than others.

Java

Java is one of the best game programming languages and despite sharing a word with JavaScript, they’re unrelated. As well as being the primary language used in games for Android, it’s easy to read and well-structured, allowing aspiring game developers to learn it in less than a year. Minecraft, Angry Birds, and Bejeweled are some examples of games that run on Java, which is best suited for mobile, 2D, and browser-based games.

Python

As already mentioned, Python is a free and open-source programming language widely used in web and game development. It’s versatile, scalable, integrates AI, and has game engines like PyGame and Panda3D to help develop games, making it easier for beginners. Despite having been used on games like EVE Online, Mount & Blade and, The Sims 4, it’s more commonly used for indie games.

Lua

One of the best programming languages for game development is Lua. It’s lightweight, fast, and easily integrates with many game engines, such as Unity and CryEngine, and is used for the highly acclaimed Far Cry franchise.

There are reports of beginners who took just a few weeks to learn Lua, but generally it takes a few months to become familiar with this language’s essentials. It’s best suited for mobile, 2D, and RPG games and was used for Hotline Miami, Don’t Starve, and Angry Birds.

C#

Developed by Microsoft, C# is a popular object-oriented and high-level programming language for game development. Its simple syntax, extended class library, and cross-platform compatibility make it a top choice for rookie developers.

C# is suitable for 2D, 3D, indie, multiplayer, and online games, covering many game development possibilities. Oxenfree, Stardew Valley, and Cuphead are some examples of what’s possible to achieve with C#.

C++

C++ is an improvement of the C programming language, designed to be more efficient, easier to use, and faster, making it one of the best programming languages for games. This is why Unreal, Frostbite, and Unity, three of the most used game engines, were developed under C++. Not only does it allow developers to build a game engine but also to create a game that runs from it.

It’s not the easiest to learn but it’s worth mentioning since it’s one of the most important languages in the gaming industry. Games like Fortnite, Unreal Tournament, and Mortal Kombat 11 were made in C++, which adds to its popularity.

5 easiest programming languages to get a job

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 23% increase in demand for web developers until 2028, and 21% increase for software developers until 2031. Organizations, businesses, and enterprises are turning digital, and the only way to support this transition is by having an extended developer workforce.

Learning any programming language almost guarantees job opportunities, but it’s still possible to increase the chances of getting hired by choosing in-demand coding skills.

Java

With reusable code and easy syntax, Java is ideal for web and Android app development, IoT (internet of Things), AI, and more. There is an enormous number of Java developers, which keeps increasing year on year. Java programming skills can land jobs such as Java architect, scrum master, mobile and web developer, and DevOps engineer.

JavaScript

JavaScript is the programming language behind Netflix and Walmart web apps and companies are always hiring people with this language’s coding skills. Learning JavaScript opens doors for full-stack, back and front-end developers, web designers, amongst others.

Python

According to GitHub, in 2023, the demand for Python developers increased 41% worldwide. Not only is it one of the best programming languages for beginners, but it’s also great for game development as it’s simple and versatile. Top industry sharks like Microsoft, Verizon, and Cisco regularly hire Python developers. Python developers can easily land jobs such as data and DevOps engineer and full-stack developer.

Golang

Golang or Go is a programming language developed by Google and one of the fastest-growing in the industry. It’s simple, intuitive, and designed to maintain viability throughout the industry’s ever-changing landscape. Learning this language can open the doors for positions like backend, software, and blockchain developer, as well as machine learning engineer, among others.

SQL

SQL has a relatively simple syntax and its job is to control and modify databases. It has broad usage across many applications and environments, and jobs requiring SQL skills are among the most in-demand. These skills are required for positions like database developer and administrator, data analyst, and SQL server developer.

Choosing the best programming language

As there are so many programming languages out there, finding the right one can feel like a needle in the haystack. Like spoken languages, there are benefits to learning each and every one. For instance, some may be easier to learn while others provide better job opportunities. With programming, this is no different. Therefore, to increase the chances of picking a suitable solution, you should ask yourself this set of questions:

1. Do you have prior programming or coding experience? A rudimentary understanding of coding may be the difference between taking years or months to learn a new programming language.
2. Why do you want to learn a programming language? There are endless possibilities here and acknowledging this is the groundwork to steer yourself in the right direction. It can be building and editing webpages, apps, software, data analysis, AI, or even just mere curiosity.
3. Are free tutorials available? After compiling a list of potential software, it’s time to start narrowing it down by trying free trials of the contenders until one comes out on top.

How to learn a new programming language

Learning how to program has never been easier. It used to be almost impossible unless you took formal courses – but nowadays, there is an inexhaustible well of learning tools:

• YouTube tutorials
• Programming bootcamps
• Programming podcasts
• Online code learning platforms
• Manuals and documentation
• Forums and communities
• Online university courses
• Online coding challenges

For example, using a platform like Codecademy is an excellent way to learn a new programming language. It offers courses in 16 languages, including Python, HTML and CSS, JavaScript, and Ruby. There are also courses for 22 related subjects like cybersecurity and machine learning.

To help get you started, there’s a quiz to determine which programming language suits your needs the best. Plus, the desktop and mobile apps are highly intuitive and user-friendly, making it even easier for beginners to absorb information. You can check our Codecademy review to learn more about this platform or even take advantage of the company’s limited free version to get yourself started.

5 tips for beginners to learn how to code

As a beginner, programming may seem impossible at first – but don’t fear. These tips will help you learn quickly, efficiently, and make the process as straightforward as possible:

• Learn by practicing: Like every other skill, practicing programming is essential to improve.
• Start with the fundamentals: There shouldn’t be step skipping, so make sure that first and foremost, the basics are clearly understood.
• Share and discuss: Joining forums or communities is a great way to get involved with the coding world and learn by asking questions and sharing ideas.
• Take breaks: Sitting in front of a computer for hours trying to digest new information can hinder learning, so taking short breaks is fundamental.
• Learn how to debug: Even masterful programmers make mistakes when coding, so it’s crucial to learn debugging to find errors in your code.

Conclusion

With abundant coding resources, learning how to program is perfectly achievable even for the less tech-savvy. However, as a beginner, it’s still possible to shorten the path to mastery by taking the right steps and following tips catered to those who are starting out.

One of the best tools to assist you in your coding journey is Codecademy, which has plenty of features and resources to help beginners achieve their goals. Furthermore, it provides occasional discounts of up to 50% on annual Pro subscriptions, a free plan, and a 7-day free trial for each paid plan, allowing users to determine its worth their investment.