Is learning a programming language hard? Does it take long? (10 pts)?

Question

For computer programming, I'm pretty much a total beginner. I'm 13 years old though, and I'd like to learn a programming language. I probably have no experience, but I really want to learn how to program computers since I'm really into computer stuff. The only thing thats holding me back is that I have an old, crappy, outdated computer that won't allow me to run programs like xCode (It's a mac)

But, how long does it take to learn a programming language, or to master it? Days, weeks, months, years? Is it hard? Also, what programming language should I learn first? I've pretty much narrowed it down to 4 programming languages: C++, Objective C (Since I have a Mac), PHP, or Java.

I honestly want to learn more than basics, but I don't want to master it either (Learn an average amount, I guess.) How long for that?

Answer 1

To learn a programming language, it takes only a few weeks. To be proficient in that language, it takes several months to at least a couple of years. To master the language, it takes many years of writing code in a particular language. You can pick up on C++ fairly easily...you can become fairly proficient in a few months of dedicated study and practice. I wouldn't bother with Objective-C unless you're planning on doing Apple development using Cocoa. Java is pretty slow to execute and is a horrible resource hog. PHP is useless outside of server-side web development. The PHP interpreter is implemented in C, and C++ is derived from C; Objective-C is also derived from C, but useless without a framework of some kind (like Cocoa); Java is a C-based language. I would actually pick up on C since it's a small language that is extremely powerful and still very relevant for programming in.

Answer 2

It is great that you want to do this. You will have a big advantage in your higher education and the working world by being able to program. Basic programming can be learned very quickly (in hours), while becoming a master of a language can take much longer (months or years).



Just recently I learned the Python programming language. This language is not only more powerful than the older languages (can do more with less lines of code), but it is also becoming very popular. Best of all it can be downloaded for free (including for the Mac) and there is lots of on-line documentation.



The best way to learn is to work through some example programs in a programming book, but it can also be helpful if you have some problems of your own that you would like to solve.

Answer 3

It was never for me because I enjoyed it,but I digress, yes you need to work hard to learn, but if it is fun it doesn't seem like work. It is about solving problems with computer code. Just pay attention and immerse yourself in the programming lessons. If that is really boring and uninteresting for you than maybe you should not even try to be a programmer. At 13, your brain is still growing, so don't be frustrated everything doesn't come easy, but even an adult needs time to learn computer languages. Nothing valuable that comes from learning comes easily.



Good Luck.

Answer 4

You should be able to take programming courses in high school, but if not or if you want to get an early start, I would suggest going to your local book store and buying a nice C++ or Java book for around $30-$40. You can get a starter java ide here:

http://www.bluej.org/

Or try Visual C++ if you like C++ better.

C++ and Java are common application codes.

PHP iand Objective C are a little advanced for a beginner.

Answer 5

Language is teh key word here. It takes some basic understanding of the structure and use of the language which is unique to each programming language out there. But just like all languages, there are common themes. Focus on those and you can learn to go back and forth fairly quickly nd easily.



I always have students focus on the Principles, the common things I mentioned above, that way they can be applied many ways in many situations. Especially with technology things seem to change often and quickly, but if you have the Principles figured out then it is a lot easier to transition with a small adjustment or learning curve on your part.



To address your situation (Crappy computer and all) there is a real nice Principle centered tool out there not to just learn with but to actually start programming Android apps, something very valuable.



Go here: http://appinventor.mit.edu/



and follow their online learning and even suggest your school or school district implement it in their classrooms and be the hero of geeks and villain of those who are forced to take a class in computer languages ; - )



Best of Luck,

Uncle Bobsquatch