Where do I start???

[Matthew#23]

I need some advice. I want to learn how to program but I dont know which language would be good to start with. I already have VB but was told that VB will teach you bad habits. I have heard that Perl or Python are good to start with and they are free to use. It probably wouldn't be a good idea to jump right into the C languages would it? Thanks in advance for any advice.

[This message has been edited by Matthew#23 (edited 07-31-2000).]

[UncaDanno]

I have yet to see any language (a tool) teach anyone bad habits.

Does learning to use a hammer, per se, teach you how to use it badly? Or does the learning you get from specific sources teach you good/bad habits?

This is where the "holy wars of computer languages" arise. By the way, I was practicing object-oriented design and programming with COBOL over twenty years ago.

Anyway, your question regarding "the best language to learn" can be answered, in part, by the answer to another question: What do you want to learn to do? That is, what kind of processes do you want to create?

Remember, all computer languages are nothing more than an interface between the machine and the developer. They (the languages) have been written each with a fairly specific goal of making that interface simpler to handle.

For example, VB is a language that can be used for RAD (Rapid Application Development) where you need to come up with a solution, demo, or proof of concept quickly. The latest two incarnations of VB have seen it evolve from an alleged "tinker toy" state to one where it can be used to develop most commercial applications and the resulting code, if written well (and that's the key, regardless the language!), is easy to maintain. C++ is often my language of choice if I want to do things that entail taking shortcuts through the Windows API maze or if I'm targeting a non-Windows OS.

[Matthew#23]

Thanks for your reply Paul. I guess I should think about what my goals are. I do know that I want to know a language that gives me alot of control over the hardware. I will prolly have a more solid idea of what I want to do as I go along. Do you think I should try to find an easy less powerful language to learn with or just jump right into something like C++ (I am a quick learner but have only had a computer since late 99). Sorry if this looks like ramble but I just got home from work.
Thanks again

[UncaDanno]

Well, you've got a bit of a dilemma. C++ would likely be the language of choice for getting down on the metal. But (big "but" here) if you wnat to do this in Windows, it'll take some doing. That OS wants to stand between apps and the physical environment.

A suggestion would be to go with C++ for a development language and, maybe, Linux for the OS.

[JetBlack69]

Just thought I'd ask a question too. I want to learn C++ too and bought a book. "Using C++" by Rob McGregor, published by Que. Anyhoo, it says you need a compiler and other such programs. Where could a get a good FREE one that works with windows2000 or 98? Thanks for the info.

------------------
"I've got thirteen channels of $hit on the T.V. to choose from." - Pink Floyd

[Mr_Wobble]

I've just decided to have a crack at learning C++ too. And found that Borland do a free download of their C++ v5.5 compiler! Ok, it's only the basic compiler, and a couple of tools, but it sounds like it'll do the job! And it's free!!! http://www.pcmech.com/ubb/smile.gif
And if anybody's interested in Java, Sun do a free download of their JDK (Java Development Kit) too. http://www.pcmech.com/ubb/smile.gif

I've also found that the publishers who publish the SAMS books (the "how to learn in 24 hrs, or 21 days" type of books) do free to read online copies of some of their books too! http://www.pcmech.com/ubb/smile.gif

Have Fun!

Mr_Wobble http://www.pcmech.com/ubb/wink.gif

[Chhhhh]

I'm learing C++ right now, I bought the Learn Visual C++ package from the Microsoft Press.

It isn't that bad, it comes with a book you use to learn the language, and another reference guide. It also comes with Visual C++ 6 Introductory Edition, and the MSDN library.

Chris

------------------
Real programmers dont use documentaion. If it was hard to write, it should be hard to read!
Error: Sector not found -- search behind couch? (Y/N)
Application has reported a 'Not My Fault' in module KRNL.EXE in line 0200:103F