Feeling left out of the coding conversation? Wondering how to get started in this exciting and in-demand field? You’re not alone. With countless resources available, finding the best way to learn how to code can be overwhelming. This guide explores why coding is a valuable skill and provides 18 different learning options to help you find the perfect fit.
Why Learn to Code?
The tech industry is booming, with a significant skills gap creating abundant opportunities for skilled developers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% growth in web developer jobs from 2022-2032, exceeding the average for all occupations. A quick search reveals hundreds of thousands of open developer positions across the country. Learning to code opens doors to a rewarding career with high earning potential, creative problem-solving, and the flexibility to work independently as a freelance developer.
Before You Begin: 4 Key Questions
Choosing the right learning path depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Consider these questions before diving in:
1. Mentor or Self-Study?
Are you a self-starter, or do you thrive in a structured environment with guidance? While self-motivation is essential, a mentor can provide invaluable support, accountability, and industry insights. If you prefer guided learning, prioritize coding classes with mentorship.
2. Free or Paid Resources?
Consider your budget and the length of time you’re willing to commit to learning. Free resources like online tutorials and communities can be excellent starting points. Paid options like bootcamps offer immersive learning experiences but come with a higher price tag.
3. Online, In-Person, or Hybrid?
Do you prefer the flexibility of online learning, the structure of a classroom, or a blend of both? If you envision working remotely, online learning aligns well with your future career. Consider the importance of a student network for collaboration and support.
4. Career Goals and Aspirations?
What do you hope to achieve by learning to code? Are you aiming for a specific web developer salary, seeking job connections, or simply learning for personal enrichment? Defining your goals helps you tailor your learning path and choose the right programming language to start with. Aspiring full-stack developers will need a different skillset compared to those focused on front-end development and web design.
18 Ways to Learn How to Code
This comprehensive list outlines various learning platforms, each offering unique features, pricing structures, learning styles, and skill levels:
1. Web Development for Beginners Short Course
This free, five-day online course teaches HTML, CSS, and JavaScript fundamentals, allowing you to build your first webpage quickly. It’s a great way to test your interest in web development before committing to a longer program.
2. FreeCodeCamp
This renowned online bootcamp offers comprehensive tracks in web design, front-end and back-end development, data visualization, and more. It boasts a vast alumni network and active forum for community support.
3. Codecademy
Codecademy provides free interactive coding classes in various programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Its hands-on approach allows beginners to experience coding from the start.
4. PluralSight
This platform offers a mix of free and paid content, primarily using screencasts and video tutorials. While much of the content targets experienced coders, free beginner-level materials are available.
5. Coursera
Coursera offers a vast library of free MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) from accredited universities, covering a wide range of programming topics. While flexibility is a plus, completion rates can be low due to the lack of personalized learning.
6. General Assembly
This bootcamp offers immersive full-time and part-time courses in web development, providing hands-on learning with expert instructors. However, the high cost can be a barrier for some.
7. Bento
Created by a Stack Overflow developer, Bento curates the best free web development tutorials available online, organizing them into a guided learning path for beginners.
8. Treehouse
This online platform utilizes video tutorials, quizzes, and interactive exercises to teach web and mobile app development. Its “show, explain, do” approach is effective for beginners.
9. CareerFoundry Full-Stack Development Program
This online program provides a fully mentored learning experience, combining front-end and back-end web development instruction with personalized support from tutors, mentors, and career specialists.
10. Udacity
Growing from a Stanford University computer science course, Udacity offers online courses with video lectures, quizzes, and homework assignments. While offering free content, Udacity’s paid “Nanodegree” programs provide a more structured learning experience.
11. Thinkful
This platform blends online courses with mentorship, offering a more personalized learning experience compared to purely self-paced options. However, the intensive program requires a significant time commitment.
12. Web Fundamentals
This Google-backed resource provides free online tutorials and documentation focused on solving coding problems. It’s geared towards developers with some experience seeking to enhance their skills.
13. The Code Player
This platform offers free online videos showcasing live coding demonstrations, allowing learners to watch code being written in real-time. The adjustable playback speed caters to different skill levels.
14. Eloquent JavaScript
This online book provides a comprehensive introduction to JavaScript programming, covering both fundamental principles and practical applications. While freely available online, the book can also be purchased in print.
15. Girls Who Code
This non-profit organization focuses on closing the gender gap in technology by providing free coding programs and mentorship to girls aged 13-17.
16. Khan Academy
This free online platform offers video tutorials covering various subjects, including computer programming basics and concepts relevant to art and game development.
17. Code Avengers
This visually appealing platform teaches JavaScript, Python, HTML, and CSS through interactive exercises and challenges. While lacking video tutorials, it emphasizes best practices for aspiring developers.
18. Fullstack Academy Of Code
This New York-based school offers a 17-week immersive coding bootcamp, promising to prepare students for developer roles. The program includes career support services but comes with a high tuition cost.
Finding the Right Path
The best way to learn how to code depends on your learning style, budget, and career goals. Explore the resources listed above, experiment with different approaches, and find the path that best suits your individual needs. With dedication and the right resources, you can embark on a successful coding journey.
