There are hundreds of programming languages. Luckily, to launch a new career in software engineering, you don’t need to know them all. Each language serves different purposes, and once you learn one, it’s easier to learn others. In this post, we’ll dig into 5 popular coding languages for beginners and explain how learning one helps you learn others.
Top programming languages for beginners
According to Stack Overflow, the following represent five of the most popular languages used by people learning how to code. Keep reading to understand why these are popular choices for beginners.
Java
Java remains a go-to programming language for building Android apps, dynamic web tools, and more. Known for encouraging disciplined coding habits, it provides a strong technical foundation, ideal for beginners looking to break into tech or expand into other languages down the line.
HTML & CSS
Often grouped together, HTML (HyperText Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) play different but complementary roles in web development. HTML handles the structure of a webpage, while CSS brings it to life visually. Learning both is essential for anyone aiming to build or design websites.
JavaScript
A great language for aspiring software engineers, JavaScript powers the interactive side of websites and browser-based applications. According to the Stack Overflow survey, it’s routinely the most used language among developers of all levels. Since it runs in the browser, it’s a cornerstone of front-end development.
Python
With its clean syntax and easy readability, Python is a favorite among those new to programming as well as seasoned professionals. It’s used in everything from web applications to AI and machine learning. Python’s simplicity makes it easier to maintain and collaborate on code, especially in team environments.
SQL
SQL, or Structured Query Language, is the backbone of many data systems. It’s a powerful tool for working with structured data, allowing developers to query databases, update records, and manage data efficiently. For beginners, SQL is a great entry point into the world of data and analytics.
When you learn one programming language, it’s easier to learn others
Every programming language you pick up adds to your toolkit. Once you’ve learned one, picking up others tends to come more easily, even though each language has its own quirks. The process of learning your first language builds core problem-solving skills that transfer across technologies.
Our coding bootcamp instructors guide students as they learn languages and help them focus on a key element of learning how to code — learning how to think like an engineer. This includes understanding how code works and how to troubleshoot challenges along the way.
Throughout our coding bootcamps, students work with several different languages and steadily build on their skills. By graduation, they’re trained as full-stack software engineers prepared for a range of technical roles.
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