I'm interested in learning a bit of computer programming, just because it is a useful skill to have. I found a nice site that should help me : http://bit.ly/gjoyT I do have a couple questions though, for any programmers (of which I'm assuming there are quite a few, on a site like this): What is the best coe to start with? Javascript is supposed to be the easiest, but C++ is supposed to be the most useful, and most difficult. Also in the running are Ajax, Perl, and Ruby-which is the best to get started with? Do you guys know of any other good resources to help me learn? I don't want to spend any money on this, and they should be easily accessible-if you have any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks!
I took a programming class in college, and I found out pretty quick that it's not for me. You have to learn to think a certain way, and never give up when you get the inevitable bugs. Some people thrive in the debugging process, and others hate it. If you find something for free though, check it out at least, and see if it's for you.
If you want to make games i would suggest gamemaker. it will teach you the thought process necessary to programing through drag and drop. Then you can move on to gml which is the built in programming language. Another easy option is to start by learning TI-Basic which is the programming language used on graphing calculators. it is a simple language. Both are free. If your set on the languages in your post i would start with java and move into c#. java is easier to learn but not has powerful. And if you are not 100% dedicated to learning c# or c++ will kill you.
I'm in the same boat although Im going to college next year. I have dont Java and C++ a bit, just basics really. The thing I did was get a decent book with beginner stuff so you can easily look back at it if you need it. Most books will walk you through the basics and you can pick it up fast. Also depending on your language youll probably want to get an appropriate IDE. Thats easier than trying to write and compile by yourself. I use Dev C++ for C++ but visual studio is good. They are both free. I have a java one too but cant remember its name. Also if it is just games you want (although from what you said I doubt it) then go with gamemaker as the above poster said.
learn java first, than master visual basic, than c++. There are better tutorials, like I know a website with video tutorials. It basically walks you though a project
Thanks for all the tips. I think I will start off with Java, as many of you have suggested-I found an online textbook to walk me through. I now have a second problem-I am running on Mac OSX. Where can I download the Java SDK for Mac OSX? I can't seem to find it anywhere Thanks for all the help guys
I'm going to take a computer programming class soon. I've tried to teach myself computer programming ehh awhile back, but I found it stressful. Still, i'm looking forward to create games in the future, probably as a hobby as well
I'm learning Java currently and am loving DrJava. Within a couple short months of learning the basics (2-3 months), I'm in the process of creating my first game. (If you're interested, you can check it out: DOBK) Coming from a family of developers (my dad and mom are both in the computer science field) I can not stress enough to get a nice easy language under your belt until you go onto to harder languages. And make sure you know that easy language like the back of your hand as you will go on to other languages referring back to that easier language. (My dad's words, not mine) Gluck on your quest, and fill us in every now and then if you have questions or what not. I for one will be more than happy to help.
Same as me too. Dad is a programmer and mom an engineer. Master java first because its the most basic and easiest. Than other languages will become easier because they involve the same logic and ideas.
GO SLOW!! I can not stress that enough. I fell flat on my face the first time I tried to learn programming. I got so caught up in wanting to know how one did this and that that I never took the to get the basics down. I will try again in a few months, but be warned...dont make the mistake I did..or you will want to smash your computer to bits
I would've personally recommend Python over Java, but atlast since you've started, I just recommend to take it slow and steady and practice on some sample programs. Also learn to "trace" programs.
I'm not sure that you should start with code - I'd be tempted to start with learning how to model the process. e.g. http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=2674 JeffG
My personal favorite Java book (if that is what you intend on doing) is roughly $50, but covers everything. http://www.amazon.com/Java-Complete-Reference-SeventhOsborne/dp/0072263857/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1298423843&sr=8-1 Ok, maybe cheaper than $50. Definitely best book.
Thanks a lot for all the help and words of wisdom. Installed Dr Java, wrote a couple programs, liking it so far. Btw, DGH94-your game is awesome
Haha thanks for the kind words dude- they mean a lot. And just for some encouragement: I'm in high school too; so it's definitely possible to make some killer games before you get a job. And that's what we're here for.
I'm also interested in learning, but I have to ask: how did you begin? by using the website that you listed in the beginning, or did you buy the book that somebody suggested earlier? Also, did whichever one you used give you a good background (something that would work for first-time coders) Thanks
