If you're a beginner eager to start coding, it's natural to search for the easiest programming language to begin your journey. With nearly 500 languages in use today, some are easy, while others can be daunting. The difficulty of a language often depends on your skills and experience.
This newsletter ranks common programming languages from easiest to hardest, helping you choose the best one to start with.
- HTML: HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is the first step in learning to code. It’s not a programming language but a markup language used to define text, color, and web elements. It’s incredibly easy to learn due to its simple syntax.
- JavaScript: JavaScript is a web programming language used to create interactive web elements. Combined with HTML and CSS, it powers both client-side and server-side applications. Its popularity and straightforward syntax make it beginner-friendly
- .Python: Python is an all-purpose language known for its readability and extensive libraries. It's widely used in machine learning, data science, and web development. Python’s simple syntax makes it ideal for beginners
- .Ruby: Ruby is an open-source language focused on simplicity and productivity. It’s commonly used for web development with Ruby on Rails. Its syntax is easy to understand, making it a great choice for new programmers
- .Java: Java is a versatile language often used in software and app development. With its object-oriented approach and "Write Once, Run Anywhere" capability, Java is relatively easy to pick up, especially for those with some coding experience
- .C++: C++ is more complex due to its advanced syntax and memory management requirements. It’s used for building operating systems, software, and GUIs, but it can be challenging for beginners
- .Assembly Language: Assembly language is a low-level language used for direct hardware communication. It requires a deep understanding of computer architecture, making it one of the hardest languages to learn
- .Prolog: Prolog is focused on logic programming, making it suitable for AI and natural language processing. However, its logical rigor and unconventional syntax make it difficult for beginners
- .Haskell: Haskell is a functional programming language built on Lambda Calculus. Its abstract nature and steep learning curve make it challenging for modern developers
- .Malbolge: Malbolge is an esoteric language designed to be nearly impossible to learn. With no coherent syntax, it’s considered the hardest programming language ever created
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When selecting a language to learn, consider your goals, the language’s use case, difficulty level, and the availability of learning resources. Starting with an easy language like HTML or Python can help build a strong foundation for tackling more complex languages later on.
Learning to code is a journey that requires patience and practice. Start with a language that aligns with your goals and offers strong community support. Over time, you'll be able to master more complex languages, enhancing your skills and broadening your opportunities in the tech world.
