The hardest coding language to learn often involves complex syntax, abstract concepts, and a steep learning curve, making mastery a significant challenge. Ready to conquer the complexities of coding? At learns.edu.vn, we break down these challenges into manageable steps, providing the resources and support you need to succeed. Explore our detailed guides and expert insights to master even the most challenging programming languages. Let’s simplify your learning journey with valuable programming skills and in-depth knowledge of programming paradigms.
1. Things to Know Before Starting to Learn Any Programming Language
Any programming language, whether easy or hard, demands dedicated time and effort. Before diving in, it’s essential to research and select a language that aligns with your career aspirations. Factors such as available resources, syntax complexity, and community support can significantly impact the learning process.
1.1 Factors Making a Programming Language Easier to Learn
Certain attributes can streamline the learning curve for new programmers. The presence of these factors can make a coding language more approachable and less daunting.
- 1.1.1 Availability of Free Resources: Abundant courses and tutorials simplify grasping the language.
- 1.1.2 Consistent Rules and Simplicity: Languages with uniform rules simplify learning new commands and functions, enabling beginners to grasp concepts faster.
- 1.1.3 Integration with Other Languages: This enhances versatility and user-friendliness for beginners.
- 1.1.4 Syntax Resembling Simple English: Languages with straightforward syntax that incorporate English words are more accessible for beginners.
- 1.1.5 Large Developer Community: A supportive community aids learners in growth and troubleshooting.
1.2 Factors Making a Programming Language Harder to Learn
Conversely, some characteristics can make a programming language more challenging for newcomers. These factors often require a deeper understanding of computer science principles.
- 1.2.1 Complex and Unusual Syntax: Complicated code structures or unconventional organization methods can be difficult for beginners to understand.
- 1.2.2 Multiple Programming Paradigms: Supporting various programming styles requires understanding different problem-solving approaches, such as functional programming.
- 1.2.3 Error Handling and Predicting Output: Identifying and fixing errors can be challenging, requiring developers to anticipate code results before running it.
- 1.2.4 Technical Jargon and Abstract Concepts: Specialized terms and abstract ideas can be hard to grasp without a computer science background.
- 1.2.5 Domain-Specific Focus and Limited Code Reuse: Languages designed for specific purposes may be less accessible to general users, and code reuse can be challenging.
- 1.2.6 Expert Guidance Needed: Some languages require guidance from an experienced tutor for effective learning.
2. Easiest Programming Languages to Learn
For those new to coding, starting with a more accessible language can build confidence and fundamental skills. These languages often feature simpler syntax and extensive learning resources.
2.1 HTML
HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, is a foundational language for structuring web pages. While not a functionality-based language, HTML is essential for anyone involved in web development.
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2.1.1 HTML Features:
- Tags: Define the type and structure of an element, usually in pairs.
- Attributes: Provide extra details or functionality to an HTML tag.
- Elements: Can be nested within other elements to create complex structures.
- Comments: For adding notes within the code.
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2.1.2 HTML Syntax: Includes angle brackets for tags, attribute name-value pairs within opening tags, and hierarchical relationships through nesting.
2.1.3 Who uses HTML?
HTML is crucial for web developers and designers, forming the backbone of all web pages. Front-end and full-stack developers rely heavily on HTML for customization and maintenance.
2.1.4 What makes HTML an easy-to-learn language?
HTML’s straightforward syntax makes it easy to learn. Numerous free courses are available online, teaching HTML in just a few hours. Its tags adhere to consistent rules, and it serves as a structural language, creating a comprehensive blueprint for websites.
2.1.5 Where to learn HTML online?
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Course Title: HTML, CSS, and Javascript for Web Developers
- Course Author: Yaakov Chaikin
- Platform: Coursera
- Brief Description: This course focuses on creating responsive web pages using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, teaching adaptive layouts for various screen sizes.
- Price: Free
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Course Title: Step-by-step HTML and CSS for Absolute Beginners
- Course Author: Kathleen Farley
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: Master HTML5 and CSS3 to craft your own website, even without prior coding experience.
- Price: $119.99
For those preferring books, “HTML and CSS: Design and Build Websites” and “Web Design with HTML5 and CSS: Learn how to design, create and build responsive websites using the best HTML5 and CSS practices” are excellent choices. Additionally, W3Schools offers free tutorials on HTML online.
2.2 JavaScript
JavaScript is used for scripting, enhancing web pages with functionality and interactivity. It transforms HTML elements and provides UI functionality through event handling and asynchronous programming.
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2.2.1 JavaScript Features:
- Event-Driven Execution: Code execution is triggered by user interactions, making it ideal for responsive applications.
- Native JSON Support: Easily parses and stringifies JSON, a lightweight data interchange format.
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2.2.2 Javascript Syntax:
- Declares variables using
var,let, orconstkeywords. - Declares functions with the
functionkeyword, arrow functions, or object methods. - Uses common control structures for conditional execution and looping.
- Manages collections of values using arrays and objects.
- Declares variables using
2.2.3 Who uses JavaScript?
JavaScript allows dynamic content creation and can manipulate the Document Object Model (DOM) to modify HTML elements. Web developers and full-stack developers use JavaScript to implement input-based logical operations.
2.2.4 What makes JavaScript an easy-to-learn language?
JavaScript is a high-level, interpreted language that integrates well with HTML. It allows for writing complex codes and running them simultaneously, making it user-friendly for new learners.
2.2.5 Where to learn Javascript online?
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Course Title: “JavaScript for Beginners“
- Course Author: William Mead
- Platform: Coursera
- Brief Description: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to JavaScript, ideal for those new to programming or seeking a career change.
- Price: Free
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Course Title: “Javascript for Beginners Course“
- Author: Dollar Design School
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This course teaches essential coding aspects in JavaScript, empowering participants to create dynamic web content.
- Price: $19.99
Key books include “JavaScript: The Definitive Guide: Master the World’s Most-Used Programming Language” by David Flanagan and “JavaScript from Beginner to Professional: Learn JavaScript quickly by building fun, interactive, and dynamic web apps, games and pages” by Laurence Lars Svekis. Online resources also include W3Schools, Codecademy, and javascript.info.
2.3 Python
Python is a popular object-oriented programming language known for its clear, easy-to-read syntax, making it a favorite for software development.
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2.3.1 Python Features:
- Supports multiple programming paradigms, including Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and Functional Programming.
- Simplifies code design and maintenance while supporting core OOP concepts like inheritance and polymorphism.
- Includes a standard library and cross-platform compatibility.
- Offers concise list creation with first-class functions and list comprehensions.
- Features robust exception handling.
2.3.2 Who uses Python?
Python is versatile and used in web development with frameworks like Django and Flask, data analysis with libraries like Pandas and NumPy, and machine learning with TensorFlow and scikit-learn. It is also effective for task automation and game development.
2.3.3 What makes Python an easy-to-learn language?
Python’s use of English language words and its numerous libraries for versatile applications make it easy to learn. Its multi-paradigm support and emphasis on simple, efficient code enhance its accessibility.
2.3.4 Where to learn Python online?
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Course Title: 100 Days of Code – The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp
- Course Author: Dr. Angela Yu
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This bootcamp transforms beginners into skilled Python professionals through daily projects and extensive content.
- Price: $119.99
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Course Title: Advanced Python Specialization
- Course author: Charles Russell Severance
- Platform: Coursera
- Brief Description: This course explores data structures, networked APIs, and databases using Python, building on the Python for Everybody course.
- Price: Free
Key books include “Python Crash Course, 3rd Edition: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming 3rd Edition” by Eric Matthes and “Python for Data Analysis: Data Wrangling with pandas, NumPy, and Jupyter 3rd Edition” by Wes McKinney. Additional online resources include W3Schools, the Free Code Camp course on Youtube, and learnpython.org.
2.4 Java
Java is a powerful, versatile, and widely-used programming language known for its robustness, security, and multithreading capabilities.
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2.4.1 Java Features:
- Multithreading for improved performance in concurrent tasks.
- A rich standard library providing extensive functionality for various tasks.
- Classes and objects define the structure and behavior of instances.
- Statically typed with eight primitive data types and support for reference types.
2.4.2 Who uses Java?
Java is used for web applications with Servlets and JSP, enterprise applications with Spring and Java EE, mobile applications for Android, desktop applications with Swing and JavaFX, scientific applications, and big data and cloud computing with Hadoop and Spark.
2.4.3 What makes Java an easy-to-learn language?
Java’s large and supportive developer community and its syntax, which is close to English, make it an accessible language for new programmers.
2.4.4 Where to learn Java online?
- The “Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization by Duke University” course on Coursera.
- The “Java In-Depth: Become a Complete Java Engineer!” course by Dheeru Mundluru on Udemy.
Recommended books include “Effective Java 3rd Edition” by Joshua Bloch and “Java: Learn Java in One Day and Learn It Well. Java for Beginners with Hands-on Project” by Jamie Chan. Online resources such as W3Schools and Codeacademy are also helpful.
2.5 Ruby
Ruby is a programming language focused on ease of use and productivity, featuring a simple syntax similar to Python and supporting mixins through modules and metaprogramming.
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2.5.1 Ruby Features:
- Mixins through modules and metaprogramming promote code reusability.
- Built-in exception handling ensures application stability.
- Snake_case variables and methods with optional questions or exclamation marks.
- Blocks, enclosed by do-end or curly braces, allow for efficient iteration.
2.5.2 Who uses Ruby?
Ruby is commonly used for web development with Ruby on Rails, scripting, test automation, APIs, and rapid prototyping. Its simplicity and expressive syntax make it suitable for automation, data processing, and system administration.
2.5.3 What makes Ruby an easy-to-learn language?
Ruby’s straightforward syntax, which closely resembles simple English coding, adheres to the “less is more” philosophy. Its large and supportive developer community enhances its accessibility.
2.5.4 Where to learn Ruby online?
- The “Comprehensive Ruby Programming” course by Jordan Hudgens on Udemy.
- “Ruby Scripting for DevOps” offered by Coursera’s Project Network.
Recommended books include “Eloquent Ruby” by Russ Olsen and “Ruby Programming for Beginners: An Introduction to Learning Ruby Programming with Tutorials and Hands-On Examples” by Nathan Metzler. Additional online resources include Tutorialspoint and try.ruby-lang.org.
2.6 PHP
PHP, or “Hypertext Preprocessor,” is an open-source server-side scripting language widely used for web development, enabling developers to create dynamic web pages and applications.
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2.6.1 PHP Features:
- Well-suited for handling server-side tasks such as form processing and database interaction.
- Flexibility and compatibility with various platforms.
2.6.2 Who uses PHP?
PHP is used by freelancers and large enterprises, powering websites like Facebook, WordPress, and Wikipedia. It is the core language behind content management systems like WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.
2.6.3 What makes PHP an easy-to-learn language?
PHP’s straightforward syntax, similarities to other languages like C and Java, and seamless integration with HTML make it easy to learn. Extensive documentation and cross-platform compatibility further enhance its accessibility.
2.6.4 Where to learn PHP online?
- “Learn PHP Programming From Scratch” by Stone River eLearning on Udemy.
- “Building Web Applications in PHP” by the University of Michigan on Coursera.
Recommended books include “PHP & MySQL: Server-side Web Development 1st Edition” by Jon Duckett and “An Introduction to Programming in PHP: Stomping Zombies with Variables, Loops, Functions and More” by John Rhea. Free online tutorials are also available on W3Schools and PHP Tutorial.
3. Hardest Programming Languages to Learn
For those seeking a challenge, certain programming languages stand out due to their complexity, syntax, and abstract concepts.
3.1 C++
C++ is known as one of the most powerful, fastest, and toughest programming languages, suitable for various purposes and capable of efficient and robust programs.
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3.1.1 C++ Features:
- Object-oriented programming (OOP).
- A Standard Template Library (STL) provides template classes and functions for common tasks.
- Resource acquisition is initialization (RAII) ensures proper resource management and error handling.
- Exception handling with templates.
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3.1.2 C++ Syntax: Requires variables to be declared with a type before use and provides control structures such as if-else statements and loops for flow control.
3.1.3 Who uses C++?
C++ is used in low-level system programming, game development, desktop applications, scientific computing, and high-frequency trading.
3.1.4 What makes C++ a hard-to-learn language?
C++’s advanced syntax and multiple paradigm support make it challenging for beginners. Its behavior is not always intuitive, requiring considerable experience and understanding to rectify bugs.
3.1.5 Where to learn C++ online?
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Course Title: Programming in C++: A Hands-on Introduction Course
- Author: Anh Le
- Platform: Coursera
- Brief Description: Designed for individuals with no prior programming experience, this course covers basic principles to object-oriented design.
- Price: Free
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Course Title: Complete Modern C++
- Course Author: Umar Lone
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This course provides an in-depth understanding of object-oriented programming using advanced techniques.
- Price: $149.99
Key books include “C++ Primer (5th Edition)” by Stanley Lippman and “Tour of C++, A(C++ In-Depth Series) 3rd Edition” by Bjarne Stroustrup. Online tutorials include W3Schools’ “C++ Tutorial” and Codecademy’s “Learn C++.”
3.2 Haskell
Haskell is a purely functional language built on lambda calculus, known for being one of the hardest programming languages to learn.
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3.2.1 Haskel Features:
- Purely functional programming makes code more predictable and easier to reason about.
- Statically typed, catching many common programming errors early.
- Type inference reduces the need to annotate types explicitly.
- Lazy evaluation allows for more efficient code and infinite data structures.
- Pattern matching allows for destructuring data and matching specific values.
- Algebraic data types define composite data types using sum and product types.
- Type-classes define a set of functions that operate on different types, promoting code reusability.
- Immutability makes data less error-prone and simplifies reasoning about the program.
- High-level abstractions allow for expressing complex ideas concisely and elegantly.
3.2.2 Who uses Haskell?
Haskell is used for web development with frameworks like Yesod and Servant, concurrent and parallel programming, data processing, formal verification, and compiler development.
3.2.3 What makes Haskell a hard-to-learn language?
Haskell’s emphasis on purity and laziness, combined with its rich type system, can make it challenging for those used to imperative programming languages.
3.2.4 Where to learn Haskel online?
No online courses on Coursera or Udemy teach Haskell. However, excellent books include “Learn You a Haskell for Great Good!: A Beginner’s Guide” by Miran Lipovaca and “Haskell: The Craft of Functional Programming” by Simon Thompson. Online tutorials are available on tutorialspoint.com and HaskellWiki.
3.3 LISP
LISP, or LISt Programming, developed in 1959, is still used for high-level AI applications, manipulating data strings effectively.
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3.3.1 LISP Features:
- S-expressions and symbolic computation.
- Dynamic typing and homoiconicity.
- Garbage collection and support for functional programming.
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3.3.2 LISP Syntax: Consists of expressions that can be atoms or lists, with functions applied by enclosing the function name and arguments within a list.
3.3.3 Who uses LISP?
LISP is used in expert systems, natural language processing, machine learning, domain-specific languages, and embedded scripting languages like Emacs Lisp and Guile.
3.3.4 What makes LISP a hard-to-learn language?
LISP’s unique syntax, functional programming paradigm, and reliance on recursion and higher-order functions make it challenging. Its S-expression syntax and abundant parentheses can be overwhelming.
3.3.5 Where to learn Lisp online?
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Course Title: The Lisp Programming Language: Learn Lisp basics in one day!
- Course Author: Nikoloz Sanakoevi
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This introductory course teaches the fundamentals of Lisp through practical examples.
- Price: $34.99
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Course Title: Most Complete Teaching of LISP
- Course Author: Arash Deljoo
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This course delves into the Locator ID Separation Protocol (LISP), enhancing routing scalability and multihoming efficiency.
- Price: $19.99
Key books include “LISP, Lore, and Logic: An Algebraic View of LISP Programming, Foundations, and Applications” by W. Richard Stark and “Common LISP: A Gentle Introduction to Symbolic Computation” by David S Touretzky. Online tutorials are also available on tutorialspoint.com and lisp-lang.org.
3.4 Prolog
Prolog is primarily used in AI applications, Computational Linguistics, and NLPs. It was the first language used to develop an automated customer care bot named ELIZA.
- 3.4.1 Who uses Prolog?
AI and NLP professionals use Prolog in automated reasoning systems, natural language interfaces, expert systems, and for pattern matching over natural language parse trees.
- 3.4.2 What makes Prolog a hard-to-learn language?
Prolog’s unconventional data structures and the fact that its code cannot be easily copied and pasted make it challenging for novices.
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3.4.3 Where to learn Prolog online?
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Course Title: Learn Prolog Programming From Zero to Hero
- Course Author: Lucas Bazilio
- Platform: Udemy
- Brief Description: This course offers learners an opportunity to acquire essential Prolog programming skills.
- Price: $84.99
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Key books include “Clause and Effect: Prolog Programming for the Working Programmer 1997th Edition” by William F.Clocksin and “Prolog Programming for Artificial Intelligence (4th Edition)” by Ivan Bratko. Online tutorials are available on Tutorialspoint and Javatpoint.
3.5 Malbolge
Malbolge is by far the hardest programming language to learn, designed to be as challenging as possible. It took two years to write the first Malbolge code.
- 3.5.1 Who uses Malbolge?
Malbolge is not preferred in the software industry and has no real-world use cases. It is learned as a test of a programmer’s skills.
- 3.5.2 What makes Malbolge a hard-to-learn language?
Malbolge is counterintuitive due to its ‘crazy operation’, base-three arithmetic, and self-altering code, making it very difficult to understand.
- 3.5.3 Where to learn Malbolge online?
No specific Malbolge courses or books exist. However, online tutorials are available, such as the [Malbolge Tutorial](http://www
