If you’re a beginner eager to dive into the world of coding, it’s natural to wonder: Which Language Is Easy To Learn For Coding? With hundreds of programming languages out there, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right starting point.
While “easy” is subjective and depends on individual skills and experience, some languages are generally considered more beginner-friendly than others. This article ranks common programming languages from easiest to hardest, exploring their uses, pros, and cons to guide you on your coding journey.
Table of Contents
- Programming Languages: Easiest to Hardest Ranked
- HTML
- JavaScript
- Python
- Ruby
- JAVA
- C++
- Assembly Language
- Prolog
- Haskell
- Malbolge
- Which Programming Language Should You Learn?
- Intention
- Use Case
- Difficulty Level
- Learning Resources and Community
- Final Words
- Easiest Programming Language to Learn FAQs
- Which is the easiest programming language to learn?
- Which is the easiest programming language to start coding?
- What is the hardest coding language to learn?
- Which coding language should I learn first?
- How much time does it take to learn coding?
Programming Languages: Easiest to Hardest Ranked
Languages like HTML, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby are often recommended as the easiest programming languages to learn. Their simpler syntax and readily available libraries make them accessible for beginners and popular choices in the coding world.
On the other end of the spectrum, languages such as C++, Assembly Language, and esoteric languages like Malbolge are considered among the hardest programming languages to learn. Some are intentionally complex, while others are intricate due to their low-level nature or specialized syntax.
Here’s a ranking of programming languages from easiest to most difficult to learn:
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1. HTML
HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, is technically a markup language, not a programming language. However, it’s often the first step for aspiring coders. HTML provides a foundational understanding of programming basics and is considered the easiest programming language to learn as an entry point. It’s used to structure the content of web pages, defining text, images, and other elements.
Applications of HTML
- Building the structure of web pages
- Defining web element organization
- Controlling the appearance of web elements
- Advanced versions like FBML extend its use in web applications.
Why HTML is Easy
- Simple, intuitive syntax that’s easy to grasp and remember
- Straightforward tags for implementing core web page elements
- Easy to debug and troubleshoot
See a basic “Hello World” program in HTML.
2. JavaScript
JavaScript is a versatile web programming language that enables interactive elements and dynamic content on websites. It’s widely recognized as one of the easiest programming languages for beginners to pick up.
When combined with HTML and CSS and frameworks like Node.js, Angular, and React, JavaScript becomes a powerful tool for building both front-end and back-end web applications and websites. This versatility places it among the best programming languages for web development.
Applications of JavaScript
- Developing interactive front-end website features
- Building server-side applications with Node.js
- Creating browser-based games
- Developing engaging web and mobile applications
Why JavaScript is Easy
- Most web browsers can compile JavaScript, providing instant feedback and results.
- Its immense popularity means abundant learning resources and community support are available.
- Achieve significant results with relatively less code.
- A strong foundation for learning more complex languages.
Explore a basic “Hello World” program in JavaScript.
3. Python
Python is a highly versatile and relatively easy, all-purpose programming language to learn. Its clear, readable syntax and extensive collection of libraries and pre-built functions make it beginner-friendly. Python’s gentle learning curve allows newcomers to quickly become productive and pursue high-demand, well-paying careers.
Applications of Python
- Widely used in machine learning and artificial intelligence
- Essential for data science and data analytics
- Programming for IoT (Internet of Things) and electronics projects
- Web development using frameworks like Django and Flask
Why Python is Easy
- Syntax resembles plain English, enhancing code readability and understanding.
- Uses whitespace for structure, reducing visual clutter and improving clarity.
- Simple debugging processes.
- Vast ecosystem of libraries and functions simplifies complex tasks.
Find a basic “Hello World” program in Python.
4. Ruby
Ruby is an open-source language designed with simplicity and developer productivity in mind, particularly for back-end programming. Born from the best aspects of several programming languages, Ruby emphasizes natural and readable code.
Applications of Ruby
- Building robust web servers
- Web scraping and data crawling
- Software development for platforms like Hulu and Shopify
- Web development using the Ruby on Rails framework
Why Ruby is Easy
- Syntax uses straightforward English words, making code easier to understand.
- Requires minimal, concise code to perform complex operations.
- Open-source and highly flexible, allowing for easy modification and adaptation.
- Strong and supportive community for new learners.
Explore a basic “Hello World” program in Ruby.
5. JAVA
JAVA is a highly popular, object-oriented programming language used extensively in enterprise-level software and application development. While powerful, it’s also considered among the easiest programming languages to learn, especially for those familiar with object-oriented concepts. Java’s “Write Once, Run Everywhere” philosophy enhances its versatility.
Applications of JAVA
- Developing desktop software applications
- Building enterprise-level mobile applications with robust backends
- Game development, particularly for Android platforms
- Big Data processing and applications
Why JAVA is Easy
- Easier to grasp for those with prior object-oriented programming experience.
- Syntax uses recognizable English words.
- Code structure is relatively concise and organized.
Check out a basic “Hello World” program in JAVA.
6. C++
C++ is a powerful, general-purpose programming language that excels in building high-performance applications where hardware and software interaction is critical. While incredibly efficient, C++’s complexity, especially in memory management and advanced syntax, can be challenging for beginners.
Applications of C++
- Creating operating systems, such as the Linux Kernel and Google Chrome OS
- Developing sophisticated software like Adobe Photoshop
- Building GUI-based applications like Microsoft Office
- Database management systems and high-performance servers
Why C++ is Tough
- Features a complex and specific syntax that can be difficult to master.
- Learning C beforehand is often recommended, adding an extra step for beginners.
- Manual memory management can be error-prone and complicated.
- Its dynamic nature, while powerful, can make it harder to track program behavior.
See how to write a C++ Hello World program.
7. Assembly Language
Assembly language stands out as one of the hardest programming languages to learn because it operates at a much lower level than high-level languages. It provides direct control over computer hardware, communicating directly with the processor. Assembly code is human-readable, but requires a deep understanding of computer architecture.
Understanding Assembly Language requires familiarity with the internal workings of a computer’s hardware and CPU, making it a significant challenge for those without a computer science background.
Applications of Assembly Languages
- Hardware development and interfacing
- Microprocessor programming and embedded systems
- High-performance computing and device drivers
- Developing high-frequency trading platforms where speed is paramount
Why Assembly Languages Are Tough
- Requires in-depth understanding of computer hardware and architecture.
- Code is context-dependent and hard to understand in isolation.
- Debugging assembly code can be extremely complex.
- Significant prior knowledge is needed before even beginning to learn.
- Very intricate and low-level syntax.
Here’s a Hello World program in Assembly language.
8. Prolog
Prolog, short for “Programming in Logic,” is a declarative language that emphasizes logical reasoning and rule-based programming. It’s considered one of the best programming languages for AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) due to its strengths in symbolic computation.
Applications of Prolog
- Artificial intelligence systems, software, and applications
- Building chatbots and conversational AI
- Developing cost-effective and maintainable programs for logical problem-solving
Why Prolog is Tough
- Demands rigorous logical consistency in programming.
- Input and output behaviors can sometimes be counterintuitive.
- Logic construction, based on goals, rules, and facts, can be restrictive for beginners lacking logical proficiency.
- Uses uncommon data structures compared to mainstream programming languages.
- Online resources and examples are less directly applicable for practical guidance.
Check out some Prolog Programs.
9. Haskell
Haskell is a purely functional programming language rooted in Lambda Calculus. Unlike imperative languages, Haskell follows a functional paradigm, which emphasizes computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions and avoids changing-state and mutable data. This functional approach can be a significant departure from more common, intuitive programming styles, making Haskell a hard programming language to learn for developers used to imperative paradigms.
Applications of Haskell
- Writing robust and efficient C code for application development
- Academic research and theoretical computer science
- Industrial applications requiring high reliability and correctness
- Data processing and rigorous software testing
Why Haskell is Tough
- Syntax uses concise and sometimes cryptic notations.
- Error identification and debugging can be challenging due to its functional nature.
- Requires a shift in thinking towards mathematical and functional problem-solving rather than procedural coding.
- Heavy use of specialized jargon and concepts can be initially confusing.
See an example of a Hello World Program in Haskell.
10. Malbolge
Malbolge is deliberately designed as one of the most esoteric programming languages, created to be incredibly difficult to learn and use. Its complexity is so extreme that the first Malbolge program took two years to write—and it was generated by a Lisp-based compiler, not written by hand!
Malbolge’s syntax is virtually incomprehensible, lacking whitespace and coherent keywords. Its self-modifying nature leads to unpredictable behavior, making it the hardest programming language for anyone to master.
Applications of Malbolge
- Malbolge is practically impractical. Its extreme difficulty makes it unsuitable for real-world applications. It serves primarily as a theoretical challenge for computer scientists and programming language enthusiasts.
Why Malbolge is Tough
- Syntax is almost impossible to decipher and understand.
- Language self-modification leads to unpredictable and often undefined behavior.
- Extremely scarce learning resources and documentation.
Here’s a Hello World Program in Malbolge.
Which Programming Language Should You Learn?
Choosing which programming language is easy to learn for coding and best suits your needs can be daunting for beginners. While numerous resources like coding boot camps, online courses, and tutorials are available, consider these factors when making your choice:
1. Intention
Before starting, define your goals for learning to code. Are you aiming for a specific career, personal projects, or simply skill development? Some languages are optimized for memory efficiency, while others prioritize ease of use or execution speed.
For personal projects or general skill-building, starting with an easy language is often beneficial. For career-oriented learning, research industry demands and choose languages that align with job opportunities and required expertise.
2. Use Case
Each programming language excels in different areas. Some are ideal for training AI models, others for low-level hardware interaction, web development, application creation, data science, game development, or software engineering.
Identify what you want to build—websites, mobile apps, games, data analysis tools—and select a language accordingly. Your project goals should guide your language choice based on its strengths and applications.
3. Difficulty Level
As highlighted in our difficulty ranking, programming languages vary significantly in their learning curve.
Starting with an easier language builds foundational skills and confidence. As you progress, you can tackle more complex languages to broaden your expertise and capabilities. Gradual learning is often more effective than jumping into a very challenging language immediately.
4. Learning Resources and Community
The learning community and available resources are crucial, especially for beginners. Languages with large, active communities offer better support, tutorials, and troubleshooting assistance.
Similarly, ensure high-quality learning resources—documentation, courses, books—are readily accessible. Choosing a language with ample learning support significantly eases the learning process and accelerates your progress.
Final Words
Learning programming languages offers numerous benefits: expanded skill sets, improved problem-solving abilities, and broader career opportunities in the tech industry. Remember, learning to code is an ongoing journey of continuous learning and adaptation.
Prioritize learning a relevant and useful programming language that aligns with your goals, rather than solely focusing on the easiest or hardest. This approach ensures your coding journey is meaningful and productive. We hope this guide clarifies which language is easy to learn for coding and helps you make an informed decision.
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Easiest Programming Language to Learn FAQs
1. Which is the easiest programming language to learn?
HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, GoLang, R, Ruby, Python, and C are generally considered the easiest programming languages to learn for beginners. They feature simple syntax with English-like keywords and boast large, supportive communities with abundant learning resources.
2. Which is the easiest programming language to start coding?
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are excellent starting points for coding. Their immediate visual feedback in web browsers makes them engaging for beginners. After mastering these, consider bootcamps or certificate courses for deeper learning.
3. What is the hardest coding language to learn?
Most esoteric programming languages, such as Malbolge, Cow, and Whitespace, are the hardest coding languages to learn. They are often intentionally obscure and lack practical applications, serving more as theoretical curiosities.
4. Which coding language should I learn first?
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python are highly recommended as the first coding languages to learn. They provide a strong foundation before progressing to more complex languages and concepts.
5. How much time does it take to learn coding?
Learning to code and achieving proficiency can range from a month to a couple of years. The timeframe depends on the language’s complexity, your learning pace, and the depth of expertise you aim to achieve. Consistent practice and challenging projects are key to improvement.
