Hello TekTip members, I have a simple question I hope to get several responses from. My current job is in Desktop/Workstation Support with with a background in UNIX and Linux. My question is: What are the best programming language(s) to learn or start out with that will allow me to build a solid programming foundation and learn other program languages with ease ? The reason I ask is because I see myself learning several within the next few years. I'd just like to have an idea of where to start. Thanks in advance!!! I'm sure I'll appreciate all of your opinions!!!
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Which programming lanuage to start with?
- Thread starter SkinnyT
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MasterRacker
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The lnaguages you use are partially dependent on what type of applications you expect to develop. I suppose C++ and Java would be a good start.
Keep in mind however, that knowing programming languages does not teach you how to write a program. You also need to learn algorithms, data structures, development methodologies etc. There's a LOT more to writiing good software than simply knowing a language.
Jeff
I haven't lost my mind - I know it's backed up on tape somewhere ....
Keep in mind however, that knowing programming languages does not teach you how to write a program. You also need to learn algorithms, data structures, development methodologies etc. There's a LOT more to writiing good software than simply knowing a language.
Jeff
I haven't lost my mind - I know it's backed up on tape somewhere ....
VB has a reputation of not being powerfull enough to wright commercial apps - while it is true that C++ dominates the field of shrink wrapped software, VB is King when it comes to business solutions (mainly front ends to databases). However, with VB 6 the language has moved more towards an object oriented language. With the upcoming release of VB.NET MicroSoft has empowered VB developers the power to develop almost any app.
My two cents are to stick with languages which embrace the web, with this I mean XML, Web Services, etc.
Go get em!!!!
My two cents are to stick with languages which embrace the web, with this I mean XML, Web Services, etc.
Go get em!!!!
I agree with MasterRacker; the language depends upon what you want to do with it.
It's like going into Sears tool department and asking the sales guy, "what tool should I buy?" The answer depends upon what you want to do with it.
Are you wanting to change jobs to become "a programmer?"
The question you have to answer is what job do you want? Then you learn the language that they use in that job. The main skill to learn is HOW to direct computer logic to solve a problem or accomplish a task.
Or are you just wanting to learn how to program tools to help you and your co-workers in your present job?
You say you are in Workstation / Desktop support. Are you now writing scripts to make your and your co-worker's jobs easier? Can you take existing scripts and a) understand them and then b) change them slightly to make them do something else better? {This used to be call "hacking code" and experts at it used to be proudly known as "hackers." Unfortunately, the term has been ursurped by the popular press - but don't let me get started on that subject...}
Personally, I just use programs to help me do my job. The language I current favor is Perl. The up side - it's POWERFUL and there are a lot of pre-written programs. The down side, the learning curve is STEEP; give yourself lots of time to become familiar with it and it is probably not a good language for someone who has never written a script in their life.
Patrick B
It's like going into Sears tool department and asking the sales guy, "what tool should I buy?" The answer depends upon what you want to do with it.
Are you wanting to change jobs to become "a programmer?"
The question you have to answer is what job do you want? Then you learn the language that they use in that job. The main skill to learn is HOW to direct computer logic to solve a problem or accomplish a task.
Or are you just wanting to learn how to program tools to help you and your co-workers in your present job?
You say you are in Workstation / Desktop support. Are you now writing scripts to make your and your co-worker's jobs easier? Can you take existing scripts and a) understand them and then b) change them slightly to make them do something else better? {This used to be call "hacking code" and experts at it used to be proudly known as "hackers." Unfortunately, the term has been ursurped by the popular press - but don't let me get started on that subject...}
Personally, I just use programs to help me do my job. The language I current favor is Perl. The up side - it's POWERFUL and there are a lot of pre-written programs. The down side, the learning curve is STEEP; give yourself lots of time to become familiar with it and it is probably not a good language for someone who has never written a script in their life.
Patrick B
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