Coding might seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, many programming languages are surprisingly similar to English, making them easier to grasp than you might think. You can start writing code within weeks and become proficient in just a few months. The best part? Coding is no longer exclusive to tech professionals. In our increasingly digital world, a basic understanding of languages like HTML, CSS, and Python is a valuable asset for nearly everyone.
Whether you aspire to a career in data analysis, dream of building your own interactive website, or simply want to enhance your problem-solving skills, learning to code is a worthwhile investment. This guide will walk you through some of the Easy To Learn Programming Languages that can kickstart your coding journey.
What Makes a Programming Language Easy to Learn for Beginners?
The perception of a programming language’s difficulty is often subjective. Experienced programmers usually find it easier to learn new languages because they’ve already developed a foundational understanding of coding principles and problem-solving techniques.
However, for those new to coding, certain languages are undeniably more beginner-friendly. This ease of learning often stems from a simpler syntax – meaning the language’s structure and commands are closer to natural English. These easy programming languages allow you to start writing code and seeing tangible results quickly, making the learning process more engaging and less intimidating, even if you don’t have a technical background.
The ideal programming languages for beginners are those that provide a smooth entry point into the world of coding. Once you’ve mastered a few of these easier languages, you’ll likely find that picking up more complex ones becomes significantly faster. Let’s explore eight of the easiest programming languages to learn for absolute beginners.
8 of the Easiest Programming Languages to Learn in 2024
The following languages are frequently recommended for aspiring coders. Starting with these can enable you to write functional code almost immediately. Don’t mistake “easy” for “unpowerful” – many of these languages are the backbone of the websites and applications we use daily.
HTML (HyperText Markup Language)
HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the foundational language of the web. It acts as the structural blueprint for web pages, instructing web browsers like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox on how to display text and images. HTML uses a system of tags to define elements and content on a webpage. Virtually every website on the internet relies on HTML to present information.
Alt text: Basic HTML code structure illustrating tags for webpage content.
HTML is often the first language that aspiring web developers learn, and for good reason. Its straightforward syntax and logical structure make it incredibly accessible. You can achieve proficiency in HTML within just a few months of dedicated learning. At App Academy, HTML is a core component of our “Web Development Fundamentals” module, emphasizing its importance as a starting point for web development.
CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)
CSS, or Cascading Style Sheets, works hand-in-hand with HTML to enhance the visual presentation of web pages. While HTML provides the structure, CSS allows you to style and decorate that structure. This includes controlling elements like color schemes, fonts, layouts, branding elements, and overall stylistic choices. Think of HTML as the framework of a house, and CSS as the interior design, paint colors, and furniture.
Alt text: Example CSS code demonstrating styling rules for webpage appearance.
For anyone aiming for a career in web development or software engineering, understanding both HTML and CSS is essential. These two easy coding languages are widely used across various tech and non-tech industries, making them valuable skills to acquire.
Python
Python stands out as one of the most readable and beginner-friendly programming languages. Its syntax is designed to be close to plain English, making it exceptionally easy to understand and write. Furthermore, Python is an open-source language, which means it benefits from a large and active community of developers who contribute to its growth and provide support for learners. Python’s versatility is another key advantage – it can be used for tasks ranging from small scripts to complex applications.
Alt text: Python code sample highlighting its clear and English-like syntax.
Major platforms like Instagram, Netflix, and Spotify are built using Python, showcasing its power and scalability. However, Python is equally suitable for smaller projects and tasks. Its popularity makes it a valuable skill in today’s tech landscape, and it’s a core language taught at App Academy. Learning Python is a fantastic starting point for anyone seeking a career in coding.
JavaScript
JavaScript, often abbreviated as JS, is another globally dominant programming language, frequently ranking alongside Python in popularity. It’s a cornerstone of modern web development, used extensively in both front-end (what users see and interact with) and back-end (server-side logic) development. JavaScript’s ability to interact seamlessly with other languages like HTML and CSS further enhances its versatility.
Alt text: JavaScript code example illustrating dynamic web page elements and interactivity.
JavaScript is primarily used to create dynamic and interactive elements on web pages, such as animations, interactive forms, and real-time updates. Virtually every modern website utilizes JavaScript to enhance user experience. Learning JavaScript is a highly practical skill, and you can begin writing JavaScript code with just a simple text editor on your computer. App Academy recognizes its importance by teaching JavaScript early in our “Programming Fundamentals” module.
SQL (Structured Query Language)
SQL, or Structured Query Language, is specifically designed for managing and querying databases. It’s the standard language for interacting with databases that store vast amounts of organized data. SQL enables users to perform crucial database operations, including adding, deleting, modifying, and retrieving data records. In today’s data-driven world, SQL is a critical back-end language for professionals across numerous industries.
Alt text: SQL query example demonstrating data selection from a database table.
From finance and healthcare to social media, any organization that relies on data collection and management needs individuals proficient in SQL. This high demand is why SQL is a key part of App Academy’s back-end programming curriculum. Mastering SQL is a valuable career move for anyone looking to advance their programming skills, especially in data-related roles.
Ruby & Ruby on Rails
Ruby is often praised as one of the easiest programming languages to learn due to its emphasis on simplicity, readability, and developer-friendliness. Ruby allows you to achieve significant functionality with concise and elegant code. Many aspiring programmers find Ruby easier to learn initially compared to other languages, making it an excellent stepping stone for further language acquisition.
Ruby on Rails is a powerful, open-source web development framework built using Ruby. Rails simplifies and accelerates web application development, making Ruby even more accessible and practical. Prominent companies like Airbnb, GitHub, and Basecamp rely on Ruby on Rails for their web platforms, highlighting its real-world applicability.
Java
Java is renowned for its “write once, run anywhere” capability. This cross-platform compatibility makes it an excellent choice for programming beginners, as Java code can run on virtually any computer system that supports the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). A significant portion of Android applications are developed using Java.
Alt text: Java code example demonstrating object-oriented programming structure and syntax.
Java’s syntax is designed to be relatively clear and straightforward, contributing to its status as one of the easy programming languages to learn. Furthermore, Java shares similarities with more complex languages like C++ and C#, making it a valuable foundation for learning those harder languages later on.
PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor)
Once you have a grasp of HTML, PHP, or Hypertext Preprocessor, becomes one of the quickest programming languages to learn next. Popular among back-end web developers, PHP is often embedded within HTML code to manage server-side operations and databases. HTML and PHP work together to create dynamic, database-driven web pages that are easily managed and updated. PHP is also known for its robust security features, making it a reliable choice for applications requiring data protection – Facebook and WordPress both utilize PHP within their infrastructure.
What Are the Easiest Ways to Learn Programming Languages?
Now that you’re familiar with some of the easiest programming languages to learn, let’s explore effective learning methods for beginners. Several options can help you get started quickly and efficiently.
Coding Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps are intensive, accelerated programs specifically designed to equip you with job-ready coding skills in a short period. Unlike traditional degree programs, bootcamps focus on practical skills and technologies that are directly relevant to landing a programming job. They are typically shorter, more immersive, and often more affordable than pursuing a 2 or 4-year computer science degree. App Academy offers various bootcamp formats to suit different learning preferences:
- In-person, full-time bootcamps
- Online, full-time bootcamps
- Online, part-time bootcamps
App Academy bootcamps provide access to experienced instructors, even for online part-time students through office hours and 1:1 sessions. Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through collaborative projects and group brainstorming, preparing you for the collaborative nature of a coding career. Beyond technical skills, many coding bootcamps, including App Academy, offer career services to assist graduates in job searching, including resume building, networking opportunities, and coding interview preparation.
Free Online Courses
Numerous free online resources are available to help you learn some of the simplest coding languages independently. App Academy, for example, offers App Academy Open, providing free access to our comprehensive curriculum. Other reputable free platforms include LearnPython and freeCodeCamp, which offer language-specific tutorials and interactive exercises. Online learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera also host free introductory courses in many easy coding languages.
While free online courses offer accessible learning, they may lack direct instructor support, collaborative learning environments, and dedicated career services. However, if you are a self-motivated learner with strong discipline and problem-solving abilities, free online courses can be an excellent starting point.
How Do I Choose Which Programming Language to Learn First?
Selecting your first programming language depends largely on your current skills and your career aspirations.
If you’re already a front-end developer and want to expand your skillset to become a full-stack developer, learning back-end languages like Ruby on Rails, SQL, or Python is a logical next step. Conversely, if you’re a back-end developer interested in front-end technologies, HTML and CSS are essential languages to learn.
However, if you’re a complete beginner with no prior coding experience, Python and JavaScript are highly recommended starting languages. They are widely popular, beginner-friendly, and offer diverse career pathways.
Your desired coding career path will also influence your language choice. Roles involving database management will require SQL proficiency. Aspiring app developers should focus on front-end languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Game developers might consider Java, JavaScript, and Python as initial languages.
By identifying your career goals, you can strategically choose which easy to learn programming languages to prioritize at the beginning of your coding journey.
Start Developing Your Skills with App Academy
App Academy is dedicated to helping you learn to code effectively and affordably, regardless of your target languages or career aspirations. Our coding bootcamps are meticulously designed to teach you in-demand languages that can pave the way to your dream career in software engineering. We provide comprehensive support, including career coaching, interview preparation, and resume writing, to help you secure the job you want after graduation. Begin your coding journey with App Academy today.
Take our online quiz to learn which program is right for you, sign up for a live online info session to learn more, schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team experts, or submit a request with our convenient online form. Start your software engineering career today with App Academy!
And, if you’re ready to dig in deeper, start exploring our programs to see which one might be a good fit for you!
Full-Time Online Coding Bootcamp – Full-Time, Online Software Engineer Program
Part-Time Online Coding Bootcamp – Part-Time, Online Software Engineering Program
Campus-based, Full-Time Software Engineering Programs – New York & San Francisco Campus Programs
Learn Coding for Free – App Academy Open
