Learning to program can be a challenge, but some languages are definitely easier to learn than others. For beginners it's not just about choosing the appropriate programming language to learn, but also about picking one suitable for what you want to do with it. For example, those interested in web development will be looking at Javascript and PHP, while mobile app programming tends to require swift or Java.
There's a lifetime ahead of you to learn as many programming languages as you wish to, but here we are assuming you are looking for simple, easy to grasp programming languages, so that's the point we start from.
Python
This free open-source language has simple and easy to read code, requires less code than other languages, and is one of the most popular programming languages taught to beginners in schools. As it is a scripting language it's not difficult to write a lot of code quite quickly, which beginners appreciate, along with the various free tutorials available online which make self study a breeze.
A man types on a computer keyboard in front of displayed cyber code in this illustration picture. VOA
Ruby
This is another language which is simple and easy to read, and flexible as it supports various styles of programs such as functional, object-orientated and imperative. It's a good first language to learn as you can get straight into programming without having to learn lots of jargon first, and it is useful for developing both websites and apps. There are lots of online support resources available free for extra help if needed.
Java
Considered one of the most influential programming languages this general purpose option is object-orientated and designed to be used in cross-platform situations. Learning Java gives anyone a great understanding of the key techniques of programming, a perfect springboard it more complex languages down the line. Android apps designers use Java, and those who are comfortable with it are never going to be out of work.
C and C++
These are two very well established programming languages which underpin many that have followed. They may not be the simplest languages around but they are very popular, and learning these brings so much foundation knowledge that is invaluable for further learning. Both C and C++ have a good range of uses, building things such as desktop, web and mobile apps, and operating systems.
All we need to remember is that intuition is an ineffective approach to writing efficient code.
Javascript
Known as the 'language of the web' this is largely a client-side front-end development language. The syntax is not difficult to learn, being likened to that of C language, and it is a very good choice for your first or second programming language learned. Javascript is used for various things, including web and mobile app development.
Blockly
Great for terrified beginners or youngsters, this free program is very basic but great or learning basic principles and building confidence. It is very simple to set up, and works by creating code in blocks. Learners who are confident with Blockly will move on to languages like Python with confidence.
Whichever programming language you choose to start with from this list you will soon pick things up and be coding with confidence. To learn more and improve your skills, head over to Simple Programmer.