Which Programming Language Should You Learn?

Programming is one of the few career paths that can survive the age of automation. But, programming is more than just a smart career choice. It’s also a passion, commitment and a lifestyle. That’s why asking the question, “Which programming language should you learn?” is one of the most important topics you can explore right now.

To help you find the ideal programming language for your interests, this article reveals 7 of the best coding languages that any current or aspiring programmer can learn. For more helpful IT career tips, news and job listings make sure you subscribe to Codeslaw, here.

1. Java

Java is a versatile programming language that’s used to create games, server-side applications and Android mobile apps. It was recently reported that almost nine out of 10 smartphones around the world run Android. Therefore, Java developers will be building native Android apps for quite some time. And, with the upcoming release of Java 9, there’s a lot for Java developers to be excited about.

2. SQL

SQL (pronounced “sequel”) is short for Structured Query Language. This is a common language that’s growing in demand, largely because it’s used to manage and manipulate databases. There are also variations of SQL like Microsoft SQL, PostgreSQL and MySQL, which are used by corporations, universities, banks and other large organizations to manage significant quantities of data.

3. JavaScript

JavaScript is known as the programming language of the internet. JS allows developers to build web apps, and add interactive functionalities to websites. Because JavaScript is compatible with all web browsers, and is a top-level, dynamic language - it’s a popular language choice for programmers.

 

4. Python

Python is often considered to be the first programming language that a developer should learn. This is because Python is a general programming language that’s simple and readable, and shares many commonalities with the English language. Interestingly, Python was named after Monty Python, so that could be another reason why the language is fun for many developers to work with. While many Computer Science and I.T. departments now teach Python as an introductory coding course in the US, Python is frequently used by experienced programmers as well.

5. Objective-C, C or Swift

The iOS family of programming languages consists of Objective-C, C and Swift (Apple’s own programming language). While the future outlook of Apple is a topic of never-ending controversy, the numbers don’t lie. Developers netted $20 billion of the $28+ billion generated in iOS App Store revenue in 2016. That figure was up by 40% from the previous year. This likely means that the iOS family of programming languages will continue to grow in popularity, and prove to be rewarding for ambitious iOS devs.

6. PHP

PHP (Hypertext Pre-Processor) is a scripting language used to build web pages that are written in HTML. This is a popular language that’s often used by new coders. But, it’s also used by veteran programmers as well, due to its many advanced features. To give you a general idea of PHP’s popularity, keep in mind that it’s used on roughly 4 out of 5 websites - including sites like WordPress, Facebook and WikiPedia. PHP is ultimately an extremely useful skill to learn for today and the future.

7. C#

C# (pronounced “C-sharp”) is a programming language born from the aftermath of C and C++. So, if you’re already familiar with C or C++, this language should be come easy to you. C# is a simple, object-oriented language created by Microsoft, and it’s used for a number of enterprise applications which run on the .NET framework.

 

Even learning just one or two additional programming languages can significantly increase your career prospects, annual salary and quality of life as a coder. Because, when you become familiar with multiple coding languages that are in-demand, you also become a more resourceful, self-sufficient and proactive programmer.

If you take a moment to check out this list of the Top 10 Online Coding Courses, you can even learn how to start coding in your new programming language of choice in a matter of seconds.

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