An Introduction to Coding

What is coding?

In simple terms, code is the language of computers. Coding languages are used to communicate instructions and rules to computers, telling them what to do and what functions to carry out. Every app you use or piece of software you encounter uses code of some form, whether this be your favourite social media app or the website you scan to order food at a restaurant.

What are coding languages?

Just like human speech, there are many different languages and variations of code that all serve different purposes. In fact, coding languages act as a sort of middleman between human language and the binary language of computers.

The most popular coding languages include:

  • Java
  • Python
  • C++
  • JavaScript
  • PHP
  • Ruby

It may be fairly daunting to be confronted with so many different languages to learn, but don’t worry, learning one of the most popular coding languages is all you need if you’re just starting out.

Why should I learn to code?

Software Development and Programming Careers
In the digital age, most if not all companies will require skilled software and website developers. Good developers are highly sought after and, as a result, experienced programmers are usually well paid and respected. Code forms the building blocks of any piece of software and is what makes websites work. Therefore, if you’re looking to start a career in software or website development it’s a good idea to learn some basic code and put it into practise. As with learning any new language, practise makes perfect!

Complete Your Own Projects
If you’ve got the entrepreneurial spirit and have a new project or business in the works, you’ll likely want a website and/or app to support your new venture. By learning code to a professional standard, you’ll have more control over the development of your new website/app and be able to fine tune it yourself so it’s exactly how you want it. You’ll also be saving money as you won’t need to hire a developer to do it for you.

Freelancing Opportunities
Looking for a new side hustle? If you know what you’re doing, taking on freelance software or web development projects is a great way to make some extra money and gain coding experience! There are plenty of great freelancing websites like Upwork and Fiverr that you can use to find freelance work, or you can reach out to people who you think may benefit from your work.

Have Fun!
Learning to code can be really fun, and it’s always rewarding when you start to feel everything come together. If you want to start learning to code, why not check out our range of programming and coding courses.

Improve Your Career Prospects and Learn New Skills
Even if you’re not planning for a career in programming, having the ability to code looks great on any job application. Being able to code demonstrates a great amount of discipline, and your skills may come in handy even if it is not part of your main role.

Learn New Skills
Coding is a skill in itself, but the process of coding can also help you to improve upon key life skills. For example, it can help to improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as encouraging you to be more creative and innovative.

Is Learning to Code Difficult?

As with learning any new skill, it takes dedication and hard work to learn how to code properly. However, with the right guidance and a good amount of patience, you’ll be coding fluently in no time! A good place to start is with our range of online programming and coding courses. Our courses have all been specially designed by experts to deliver learning that is effective and easy to follow. You are able to learn at your own pace and fit learning around your schedule – and there’s no pressure to meet deadlines or set schedules.

We hope you’ve learned a little more about coding by reading this blog post. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team!

Ready to start coding? Click here!