How to Start Coding and Learn to Code: A Comprehensive Beginner’s Guide

Coding (computer programming) has become a fundamental skill in today’s tech-driven world. We rely on coded software every day – without coding, we wouldn’t have the websites, apps, and programs we use daily.

Learning to code not only opens up career opportunities but also empowers you to create technology rather than just consume it.

The best part is that coding is more accessible than ever.

Numerous free resources, online courses, and communities make it possible for anyone to learn, regardless of age or background. You don’t need to be a computer science major to get started – coding is for everyone.

If you’re unsure which language to begin with, don’t worry—there’s no single “best” first language. The choice often depends on your goals.

Try to pick one language that resonates with your interests and stick with it long enough to grasp the fundamentals—once you master one, picking up others becomes much easier.

In this guide, we’ll walk beginners and students through why you should learn to code and how to start coding step by step in a structured way. We will also cover the best programming languages you should learn this year.

Why Learn to Code?

Learning to code can be incredibly rewarding. Here are some of the top reasons to consider picking up programming:

Career Opportunities

Tech skills are in high demand. Software development roles are plentiful and often well-paying.

For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects software developer jobs will grow 17% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average. These jobs also offer competitive salaries (the median annual wage for developers was about $130k in 2023). Coding skills can qualify you for careers in web development, data science, mobile app development, and more.

Problem-Solving and Logical Thinking

Programming teaches you how to break down problems and think logically. As Steve Jobs famously said, “Everybody in this country should learn how to program a computer... because it teaches you how to think.”

Writing code is essentially solving puzzles – you analyze a challenge, formulate a step-by-step solution (an algorithm), and instruct the computer to execute it.

This process of breaking complex problems into smaller parts and solving them systematically builds strong analytical skills. These problem-solving skills carry over into many aspects of life and work.

Personal Projects and Creativity

Coding is a tool for creation. It allows you to build your own projects, whether it’s a personal website, a game, a mobile app, or an automation script.

Bringing your ideas to life through code can be extremely satisfying and creative. You don’t have to wait for someone else to make the tool or game you wish existed – you can learn to create it yourself.

Even though programming has rules, it offers endless possibilities for innovation. In fact, coding can be applied to many personal interests (from art to automating daily tasks), empowering you to bring your ideas to life in a digital space.

Flexibility (Remote Work and Freelancing)

Coding skills can offer a flexible lifestyle. Many programming jobs allow remote work, meaning you can work from anywhere with an internet connection.

As a freelance programmer, “you’re in control of your working hours, the projects you undertake, and the clients you work with,” giving you freedom to tailor work to your lifestyle. With just a laptop, developers can collaborate with global teams or clients. This flexibility can improve work-life balance – you set your own schedule and can often work from home or any location. In a world where remote jobs and the gig economy are on the rise, coding provides an avenue to participate in this digital workforce on your own terms.

Learning to code offers these benefits and more.

Whether you aim to land a well-paying job, build something meaningful, or just challenge yourself to learn a new skill, coding is a worthwhile endeavor.

Check out the reasons why everyone should learn to code.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start Coding

Ready to get started?

Learning programming might feel overwhelming at first, but if you approach it step by step, you’ll make steady progress.

Here’s a roadmap to help you start coding:

1. Define Your Goals and Motivation

Ask yourself why you want to learn to code.

Do you want a career in tech, to build an app or game, to automate tasks, or just to try a new hobby?

Defining your goals will give you direction and keep you motivated.

For example, your approach might differ if your goal is to become a web developer versus just picking up programming for fun. Write down a few projects or outcomes that excite you – this will serve as inspiration when you hit challenges.

2. Learn Coding Fundamentals

Start with the basics of programming. No matter which language you choose, fundamental concepts are largely the same. Focus on understanding:

1. Variables and Data Types: How computers store information (e.g., numbers, text) in variables.

2. Control Structures: Concepts like conditionals (if/else statements) for decision-making, and loops (for, while loops) for repeating actions.

3. Data Structures: Ways to organize data, such as arrays/lists, dictionaries, etc.

4. Functions: Reusable blocks of code that perform a specific task.

5. Syntax: The basic grammar of the programming language (punctuation and structure).

Mastering these core concepts provides a foundation you can build on. You can learn fundamentals through beginner courses or interactive tutorials that explain concepts and provide practice exercises. Don’t skip this step – understanding the basics (like what a “variable” or “loop” is) is crucial before you take on complex projects.

3. Choose the Right Programming Language

There is no single “best” language to start with, but some are more beginner-friendly. Popular choices for beginners include Python and JavaScript, because they have a simpler syntax and tons of learning resources.

Python is a general-purpose language known for readability (it’s great for beginners and used in everything from web development to data science).

JavaScript is essential if you’re interested in web development, since it runs in all modern web browsers and can also be used on the server side (with Node.js).

Languages like Java or C++ are powerful but have a steeper learning curve and more complex syntax, so they might be a bit harder as a first language (though some beginners do start with them, especially in academic settings).

Consider your goals from Step 1:

1. if you want to build mobile iOS apps, you might start with Swift

2. Java (or Kotlin) for Android apps

3. Python for data science

4. JavaScript (along with HTML/CSS) for front-end web

The key is to pick one language and stick with it for a while.

Don’t get caught in “analysis paralysis” trying to choose the perfect language – any popular language will teach you core concepts. Once you learn one, it becomes easier to learn others.

(Tip: Python is often recommended for absolute beginners due to its English-like syntax and versatility.)

Find out how to learn Python step-by-step.

4. Set Up Your Development Environment

Next, set up the tools you need to write and run code. Fortunately, this is easier than it sounds:

• Install a Code Editor or IDE: A code editor or IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is where you’ll write your code. There are many free options. A very popular one is Visual Studio Code (VS Code) – it’s free, beginner-friendly, and supports many languages with helpful extensions. Other options include Sublime Text or Atom (lightweight text editors) or language-specific IDEs like PyCharm for Python or IntelliJ for Java, though those can be heavy for beginners.

• Set Up Required Software: Depending on the language, you may need to install additional software. For example, if you chose Python, install Python from python.org (which comes with an easy editor called IDLE). For JavaScript, you mostly just need a web browser; if doing backend JS, install Node.js. Many languages have official websites with download instructions.

• Version Control (Git) and GitHub: It’s a good idea to install Git, a version control system, early on. Git lets you save “snapshots” of your code and collaborate with others. Platforms like GitHub or GitLab allow you to back up your code online and share projects. Setting up Git is straightforward: download it and create a GitHub account for remote repositories. As a beginner, you can start by using GitHub Desktop or VS Code’s built-in source control for an easier interface, or learn basic Git commands. Using version control from the start will help you keep track of your progress and work like a pro.

  Environment setup example: If you’re starting with JavaScript for web, you might install VS Code, enable live server extension to test webpages, and use Git to manage your code. If you’re starting with Python, you’d install Python and perhaps use VS Code or an IDE like PyCharm, and initialize a Git repository for your project.

5. Follow Online Courses and Tutorials

Leverage the wealth of learning materials available online. Structured courses can guide you through fundamentals in an organized way.

Websites like TechGrind.io offer beginner-oriented coding courses (many are free or have free options).

For instance, some platforms host courses from universities, while others provide a free self-paced curriculum for web development. Interactive platforms allow you to write code in the browser and give instant feedback, which is great for beginners.

Start with a beginner course in your chosen language – this will give you a structured path and introduce concepts in a logical sequence.

Some of the courses you can try as a beginner:

• Master Python: From Beginner to Advanced

• Master Java: From Beginner to Advanced

• Master JavaScript: From Beginner to Advanced

• HTML for Web Development

• CSS for Web Development

Supplement courses with tutorials or blogs for alternate explanations if you get stuck on a topic.

Online resources are plentiful, so you can learn to code without spending any money, though investing in a well-reviewed course or book can sometimes speed up your learning.

Make sure to code along with tutorials (don’t just watch). Hands-on practice is how you actually absorb coding skills.

6. Work on Small Projects to Apply Your Knowledge

As soon as you learn the basics, start building something tangible. It’s important to apply your knowledge to real projects, because programming is a learn-by-doing skill.

Don’t wait until you “know everything” – you’ll learn a lot during the project.

Begin with small, manageable projects: for example, if you’re learning web development, make a simple personal homepage with HTML, CSS, and a bit of JavaScript.

If you’re learning Python, try writing a script that, say, renames a batch of files, or a simple text-based game. If Java, maybe a basic console application like a calculator.

Starting a project might feel intimidating, but keep it simple and focus on using what you have learned.

Even making a basic “Hello World” website or a simple guessing game counts as a project.

The process of building something from scratch will solidify your understanding. You’ll also encounter new questions (“How do I do X?”) that will drive you to learn more.

Remember to break your project into small tasks and solve them one by one.

By the end, you’ll not only have something cool to show off, but you’ll also understand the material more deeply.

(A common beginner project for web is to build a personal portfolio site; for Python, many start with a trivia quiz or a number guessing game.)

The key is to start small and gradually increase project complexity as you gain confidence. Each project will teach you new concepts and problem-solving techniques.

Learn to code in Python.

7. Join Coding Communities and Forums

You don’t have to learn alone. Becoming part of a coding community can greatly enhance your learning experience.

Online forums are great for getting specific programming questions answered.

There are also subreddits, Discord communities, and forums where beginners help each other out. By joining these communities, you can ask for help when you’re stuck, share your progress, and learn from others’ questions.

Often, you’ll find that someone else has had the same problem as you – and the solution is already posted.

Participating in a community keeps you motivated and exposes you to different perspectives and tips. Don’t be afraid to ask beginner questions; the coding community is generally very supportive of newcomers (just remember to be polite and provide details about your issue).

In addition to online communities, consider finding a study group or attending local meetups or hackathons for beginners if available.

Surrounding yourself with others who are learning to code can keep you accountable and inspired.

Mentorship can also be invaluable – if you can connect with an experienced developer, their guidance can accelerate your learning. At the very least, lurk in forums and read discussions – you will pick up a lot. Learning to code is much easier when you know help is just a question away.

8. Practice Regularly with Coding Challenges and Exercises

Consistency is key in learning to code.

Try to practice a little bit every day or set a weekly coding routine.

In addition to working on projects, you can sharpen your skills by solving coding challenges. Websites offer tons of programming problems to practice on, from easy to very advanced. These coding challenge sites provide a fun, gamified way to improve your problem-solving skills.

For example, some sites present challenges that increase in difficulty as you solve them, and you earn ranks and honors – it makes practice feel like a game.

Others are popular for preparing technical interview questions, but you don’t have to be job-hunting to use them – they’re great for learning algorithms and thinking like a programmer.

Pick beginner-level challenges related to what you’ve learned (e.g., simple string manipulations or math problems) and try to solve a few each week. They will reinforce your knowledge and reveal areas you need to review.

Tip: don’t get discouraged if you can’t solve a problem immediately. Struggle is normal – it’s how you learn. If stuck, review similar examples or ask for hints in the community.

Over time, solving challenges will feel rewarding as you see your skills grow.

Most importantly, keep coding regularly; steady practice and incremental learning will yield the best results.

By following these steps, you’ll build a strong foundation as a new coder.

To recap: start with a clear goal, learn the basics, choose one language, set up your tools, take a course or two, build small projects, engage with others, and practice consistently.

Remember that learning to code is a journey – even professional developers continually learn new things. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small wins (like solving a problem or completing a project), and enjoy the process of creation and discovery.

Best Programming Languages for Beginners

One common question is “Which programming language should I start with?” Here are a few of the top languages recommended for beginners, each with its own strengths:

Python

Python is often cited as the best first language. Its syntax is very readable (close to English), which lets you focus on learning programming concepts rather than complicated syntax.

Python is a general-purpose language used in web development, data science, automation, artificial intelligence, and more. This means as you learn, you can try Python in many different domains.

Python’s huge community and wealth of libraries (pre-written code for various tasks) make it both beginner-friendly and powerful for advanced projects.

Moreover, it’s easy to learn and extremely versatile. Many beginner programming courses (and even universities) use Python to teach fundamentals.

Check out Python vs Java.

JavaScript

JavaScript is the language of the web.

If you want to do any web development, you’ll need to learn JavaScript eventually. It runs in all browsers (front-end web development uses JS to make interactive webpages) and can also be used on the back-end (with frameworks like Node.js).

JavaScript has a C-style syntax but does not require explicit types (like Python, it’s high-level). It’s also the most commonly used programming language among developers, which means there are countless resources, tutorials, and community support available.

Starting with JavaScript allows you to see results quickly (you can get something visible in a web page early on) which can be motivating.

Keep in mind you should also learn HTML/CSS alongside JS for front-end web projects (more on that next).

Overall, JavaScript is an excellent choice if you’re interested in building websites or web applications.

Check out Java vs JavaScript.

HTML & CSS

While not programming languages, HTML (HyperText Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) are essential for anyone learning web development.

HTML is used to structure content on the web (e.g., headings, paragraphs, images), and CSS is used to style that content (e.g., layouts, colors, fonts).

While you won’t write algorithms in HTML/CSS (since they don’t have logic like loops or conditions), you will almost certainly learn them alongside JavaScript if web development is your goal.

They are relatively easy to pick up and a great starting point to see quick results (building a simple web page).

Many beginners start by learning basic HTML and CSS to create a simple website, then add JavaScript to make it interactive. Even though HTML/CSS are not general-purpose coding languages, they form the foundation of the web – knowing them is a must for aspiring web developers.

Java

Java is a popular language known for its portability (write once, run anywhere) and use in large-scale applications. It’s heavily used in enterprise environments (banks, large companies) and is one of the primary languages for Android app development.

Java’s syntax is more verbose and strict compared to Python or JavaScript, which means it enforces good programming habits but can feel a bit overwhelming for some beginners. It is an object-oriented language, and you’ll need to learn about classes and objects from the start.

The advantage of Java is that it gives you a solid understanding of programming in a way that is applicable to many other languages (C#, C++ have similarities).

If you plan to work on Android apps or prefer a structured language with a strong type system, Java is a solid choice.

(Note: Kotlin is another language for Android now, but learning Java first can still be beneficial as a beginner.)

Swift

Swift is a language developed by Apple for iOS and macOS application development.

If your goal is to build iPhone or iPad apps, Swift is the go-to language (it replaced Objective-C for most new iOS development because it’s more modern and easier to work with).

Swift was designed to be beginner-friendly, with a clean syntax and features that prevent common bugs. Even though it’s mainly for the Apple ecosystem, Swift is open-source and gaining popularity beyond just iOS.

Starting with Swift is a good idea if you’re primarily interested in Apple platform development. You can even use Apple’s free Swift Playgrounds app on iPad/Mac, which teaches coding in Swift through interactive puzzles – a very beginner-friendly way to learn.

C++

C++ is a powerful language often used in situations where performance is critical, such as game development (many game engines use C++), systems/software that interacts closely with hardware, and high-performance applications. It’s actually an extension of the C language (hence “++”), adding object-oriented features.

C++ allows low-level manipulation of computer memory, which gives a ton of control but also means you must manage more details (and potential errors).

Because of its complexity, C++ is typically considered more challenging for beginners – you’ll deal with concepts like pointers and manual memory management.

However, learning C++ can make you a very strong programmer and it can be rewarding if you’re interested in how things work under the hood. Many computer science programs use C++ or Java in early courses to teach fundamental concepts.

If you’re aiming at game development or just want to dive into a language that forces you to learn the nitty-gritty, you can start with C++ – just be prepared for a steeper learning curve. Otherwise, you might learn it later after picking up easier languages.

Which Language Should You Choose First?

It truly depends on your interests.

If unsure, Python or JavaScript are safe and popular first choices for most people due to their simplicity and broad use.

Remember, the concepts you learn are more important than the particular syntax. Your first language is just a starting point; you can always learn more languages later as needed.

Top Resources and Courses to Learn Coding

One of the best things about learning to code today is the abundance of resources available.

Here are some of the top websites, courses, and tools to help you learn programming (many of these are free):

• Codecademy: An interactive learning platform that offers beginner courses in various languages (Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, etc.). Codecademy’s lessons are hands-on – you read a bit of theory and then immediately type code in the browser to practice. It’s great for beginners because you get instant feedback and can progress at your own pace. Basic courses are free, and they also have a Pro subscription for more content and projects.

• TechGrind.io: A practical, self-paced learning platform designed to help beginners master coding languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, HTML, and more. TechGrind.io emphasizes learning by building real-world projects, enabling learners to quickly gain hands-on experience and showcase their skills through tangible results. The courses feature thorough explanations, interactive exercises, and clear, structured lesson plans. It's especially beneficial for newcomers to coding because each lesson connects directly to practical skills required in tech careers. Courses are offered through affordable, one-time payments, granting lifetime access without ongoing subscriptions.

• freeCodeCamp: A completely free online curriculum for learning web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.), Python, and more. freeCodeCamp is a nonprofit that offers thousands of hours of learning content and hands-on projects. As you complete each module, you build projects and eventually earn certifications. It also has an active forum and community where you can ask questions. Many people have used freeCodeCamp to go from zero experience to landing developer jobs.

• Coursera and edX: These platforms host Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) from top universities and institutions. For example, some courses include “Python for Everybody” or Harvard’s CS50. You can audit courses for free (access videos and assignments without a certificate) or pay for a certificate. Courses often include video lectures, quizzes, and programming assignments. If you prefer a more academic or structured approach, MOOCs are a fantastic option. Harvard’s CS50x (Introduction to Computer Science) is highly recommended – it’s engaging, covers fundamental concepts, and is suitable for beginners.

• Udemy: Udemy is an online marketplace where individual instructors offer courses. You’ll find thousands of programming courses for just about every language and technology. Many are inexpensive (and go on sale often). Quality can vary, but you can check ratings and reviews. For beginners, a well-reviewed “Complete [Language] Bootcamp” on Udemy can provide a comprehensive introduction with hands-on projects. It’s a good option if you learn well from video instruction and want a one-stop course to go from zero to intermediate.

• DesignGurus.io: Known for high-quality courses and interview preparation material for software engineers. They offer specialized courses for coding interviews and system design. This platform is especially useful when you want to prepare for technical interviews or deepen your understanding after the basics. Their content is praised for being very practical and effective, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re aiming for a tech career and want structured guidance.

• The Odin Project: A free open-source curriculum primarily for web development. It stitches together various resources into a coherent path, covering HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Git, and Ruby on Rails, with lots of project-based learning. It’s more self-directed but excellent if you prefer a thorough curriculum with projects and you’re interested in full-stack web development.

• Books – “Automate the Boring Stuff with Python”: Don’t overlook books. This particular book is fantastic for absolute beginners, teaching Python by showing how to automate everyday tasks. It’s written in an approachable tone and is available free online. By the end, you’ll have a portfolio of small scripts that accomplish practical things. Other popular beginner books include Python Crash Course by Eric Matthes and Eloquent JavaScript (free online) for JavaScript learners.

These are just a few of the many resources available.

The key is to find ones that match your learning style. Some people prefer interactive websites, others like watching video lectures, and some learn best by reading and doing. Try a mix and see what keeps you engaged.

Important: Don’t get stuck in “tutorial purgatory” – use these resources to learn, but remember to write your own code and projects outside of them too.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Learning to code is a journey filled with highs and lows. Here are some common challenges beginners face, and tips on how to deal with them:

Debugging and Fixing Errors

As a beginner, you will definitely encounter errors (bugs) in your code. It might be frustrating when your program isn’t working and you don’t know why.

First, realize that even experienced programmers deal with bugs every day – it’s a normal part of coding.

Errors are actually good!

They’re feedback telling you something is off.

A common challenge is that a tiny mistake can break your program – one little missing character can ruin your entire code. To overcome debugging issues: take a deep breath and read error messages carefully (they often tell you the file and line number where the problem occurred). Learn to use a debugger or insert print statements to trace what your code is doing step by step.

Google is your friend – copy-paste error messages or describe your bug online; chances are someone else had the same issue and there’s an answer out there.

Over time, you’ll get better at spotting common mistakes. The key is not to give up – debugging is a skill that improves with practice. When you finally fix a bug, it’s a great feeling and a learning moment. Embrace errors as part of the learning process.

Staying Motivated and Consistent

It’s easy to start learning coding with enthusiasm but then lose motivation when things get challenging or life gets busy. To stick with it, try to code a little bit every day or set a regular schedule (even 30 minutes daily helps).

Consistency is more important than marathon sessions once in a while. Set small, achievable goals for each session – for example, “Today I’ll solve one practice problem” or “This week I’ll finish the chapter on loops.”

Celebrate those small wins. If you’re feeling demotivated, remind yourself of your initial goals (why you started) and envision the projects you want to create or the job you want to land.

Make learning fun: choose projects that excite you or gamify your practice by using coding challenge sites.

If a particular topic is boring or hard, try a different resource or approach.

Another common hurdle is feeling overwhelmed by how much there is to learn – remember you don’t have to learn everything at once.

Focus on one step at a time. Progress might feel slow, but if you stick with it, those tiny improvements compound.

Many beginners also struggle with self-doubt. A great tip is to build a habit: for instance, commit to coding consistently each week and track it – habits keep you going even when motivation fluctuates.

And don’t forget to take breaks to avoid burnout.

Information Overload and Imposter Syndrome

The tech world moves fast, and beginners often feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things to learn – multiple languages, frameworks, tools, etc.

This can lead to “tutorial paralysis” or quitting in frustration.

The antidote is to narrow your focus.

Stick to one learning path or a small set of resources at first, and ignore the rest until you’re comfortable.

Imposter syndrome is another common challenge – this is the feeling that “I’m not good at this, I’m a fraud, everyone else finds this easy.”

Know that it’s extremely common among software developers.

If you feel this way, you’re not alone. Overcome it by acknowledging your progress (look back at code you wrote a month ago and you’ll likely see improvement). Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s highlight reel; everyone learns at their own pace.

If you get stuck, remember that struggle is exactly how learning happens.

Each time you overcome a problem, you gain confidence. You may always have a bit of imposter feeling, but don’t let it stop you.

Every coder Googles stuff and debugs errors – it doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for it.

Finding Mentorship and Community Support

Learning in isolation can be tough. Without feedback or guidance, you might get lost or discouraged.

That’s why finding a community or a mentor can help immensely.

If you’re self-learning, a mentor could be a more experienced friend or someone you meet online who offers advice. Don’t hesitate to ask questions – that’s exactly what forums are for.

Many local communities or online groups exist for newbies to support each other.

If you can, attend a local coding meetup or workshop. Pair programming is also a great way to learn. More structured mentorship through platforms or bootcamps can accelerate your progress if that’s an option.

The main point is: don’t be afraid to seek help.

Programming is rarely a solo endeavor; professionals collaborate all the time. When you get help on a tough problem or receive encouragement, it can propel you forward.

Overcoming challenges is easier when you have a support system.

Avoid these 12 mistakes that self-taught programmers make.

FAQs

Q1: How long does it take to learn coding?

It really depends on what “learn coding” means for you (basic proficiency vs. job-ready skills) and how much time you can dedicate. In general, you can grasp the fundamentals of a programming language within a few months of consistent practice.

Many people report that with 2-3 months of regular study, they can write simple programs and understand basic concepts. To build more complex projects or become intermediate often takes around 6-12 months of steady learning. Becoming advanced can take a year or more of continuous practice.

Of course, these timelines vary widely per individual – someone spending 20 hours a week will progress faster than someone doing 5 hours a week.

Q2: Can I learn to code for free?

Absolutely, yes! You do not need to spend money to learn coding if you have internet access. There are countless free resources available.

For example, some platforms provide a full coding curriculum at no cost, and there are free interactive websites and tutorial videos. Documentation for every programming language is freely available, and many communities also offer free mentorship and help. You can even use free development tools.

Learning coding for free is very feasible. That said, you might choose to pay for a course or book if it suits your learning style, but it’s not a requirement. The main investment is your time and effort.

Q3: Do I need a computer science degree to become a programmer?

No, you do not need a CS degree. While a formal degree can help for certain jobs, the tech industry is full of self-taught programmers and coding bootcamp graduates.

Many companies care more about your skills and portfolio than a specific degree. With the abundance of online courses and resources, it’s possible to gain the knowledge on your own or through non-traditional pathways.

A degree might provide a broad foundation, but it’s not the only path. If you’re able to build projects and demonstrate your abilities, you can get opportunities. Also, learning on your own teaches you how to keep learning, which is crucial in tech.

Companies like Google, Apple, and IBM have dropped the requirement for a CS degree for many programming roles. So focus on building your skills and portfolio. In summary, a CS degree is not mandatory – what you can actually do matters more.

Q4: Which coding language should I start with?

This is a common question. Generally, Python or JavaScript are top recommendations for beginners due to their simplicity and wide use. Python is great for beginners because of its easy-to-read syntax and versatility. JavaScript is essential if you want to do web development and is also fairly easy to start with. If you have a specific interest (e.g., mobile apps for iOS, game development, etc.), you might choose Swift or C++.

But you won’t go wrong with Python or JavaScript as a first language for most purposes. Once you learn one language, picking up others becomes easier. The key is to pick one and stick with it long enough to learn the fundamentals before hopping to another.

Q5: What are the best websites to practice coding?

Once you know some basics, coding challenge websites are great for practice:

• HackerRank: A wide range of problems from easy to advanced.

• LeetCode: Popular for algorithmic challenges, especially interview prep.

• Codewars: Gamified challenges (“kata”) that increase in difficulty; fun and community-driven.

• Project Euler: Math-heavy puzzles for those who enjoy problem-solving.

• Others include Edabit, HackerEarth, and Advent of Code.

These sites are free to use (some have premium features). Start with beginner-level challenges, and steadily increase difficulty. Consistent practice is key to improving your skills.

Conclusion

Starting your coding journey can be one of the most life-changing decisions you make.

Every expert programmer was once a beginner who didn’t know what a variable or loop was.

So take that first step: choose a language, write your first “Hello, World!” program, and build from there. Each small program you write, each bug you fix, each project you finish will boost your confidence and skills.

The key is to keep learning and keep coding – consistency will pay off.