The Easiest Codes to Learn for Beginners

Whether you aim to build websites, create dynamic applications, or manage databases, starting with the right language can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the easiest and most versatile languages for beginners, including Python, HTML & CSS, JavaScript, SQL, Go, and Ruby.

There are so many programming languages out there, each with its own strengths and quirks. But the sheer number of options out there can feel overwhelming. So, how do you choose? How do you pick the right language for your needs, your goals, and your limited time?

In this article, we’ll discuss the 6 best and easiest coding languages for beginners to learn. 

Why Learn a New Coding Language?

Before we go into the languages themselves, let's talk about why you might want to learn a new language in the first place. Here are some of the reasons:

  • Expand your skill set: Learning a new language opens up a whole new world of possibilities. You can build websites, create mobile apps, automate tasks, and even analyze data. 
  • Increase your earning potential: Developers with diverse skills are in high demand, so knowing multiple languages can give you a competitive edge.
  • Solve problems more efficiently: Different languages are designed for different tasks. Learning a new language can give you the tools you need to solve problems more efficiently and effectively.
  • Stay ahead of the curve: The tech world is constantly evolving, and learning new languages helps you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.

6 Easiest Programming Languages to Learn

#1. Python

Python is often hailed as the perfect language for beginners. It's known for its readability and simplicity, making it a great choice for those just starting out. It's easy to learn and has a wide range of applications. Learn more about Python from our Python Basics course.

  • Easy to Read: Python uses clear, English-like syntax, making it much easier to understand than some other languages. 
  • Versatile: Python is used in a wide variety of fields, from web development and data science to machine learning and game development.  
  • Large Community: Python has a massive and active community of developers, so there's plenty of support available if you get stuck.  

Here's a simple Python code example: 

print("Hello, world!")

This code simply prints the message "Hello, world!" to the console.  It's a classic first program for any aspiring coder.

#2. HTML & CSS

HTML (HyperText Markup Language) and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) are the foundation of the web. They are not programming languages in the traditional sense, but they are essential for creating websites and web applications. HTML is used to structure and organize web pages, while CSS is used to style web pages. It controls the appearance of elements on a web page, such as fonts, colors, and layout.

Why HTML is so important

  • The Backbone of the Web:  Every website you visit is built using HTML. It's the language that defines the structure of web pages, from headings and paragraphs to images and videos.
  • Easy to Learn: HTML is relatively simple to learn, with a straightforward syntax and a logical structure. 
  • Visual Results: You can see the results of your HTML code immediately in your web browser.  

Here's a simple HTML code snippet that creates a basic webpage:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>My Website</title>
</head>
<body>
<h1>Welcome to My Website</h1>
<p>This is a paragraph of text.</p>
</body>
</html>

Output:

Why CSS is so important

  • Visual Appeal: CSS allows you to create visually appealing web pages that are easy on the eyes and engaging for users.
  • Consistency: CSS helps you maintain consistency in the look and feel of your website across different pages and devices.
  • Flexibility: CSS allows you to easily adjust the appearance of your website based on different screen sizes and devices. 

Here's a simple CSS code snippet that styles the heading in the HTML example:

h1 {
  color: blue;
  text-align: center;
}

Output:

HTML and CSS work together to define the structure and appearance of web pages. Learning these languages is a great starting point for anyone interested in web development.

#3. JavaScript

JavaScript is the language of the web. It is not easy to learn, but it’s one of those languages you will want to learn as a beginner. It's used to add interactivity and dynamic behavior to web pages. Learning JavaScript opens doors to front-end development and, with the advent of Node.js, even back-end development.

Check out this article: Should I Learn Python or JavaScript? 

Why JavaScript is so powerful

  • Interactive Web Pages: JavaScript allows you to create dynamic web pages that respond to user actions, like clicking buttons or scrolling through content.  
  • Widely Used: JavaScript is used on almost every website you visit. It's the language that makes websites feel more engaging and user-friendly.
  • Versatile: JavaScript is used for more than just web development. It can also be used to create mobile apps, server-side applications, and even games. 

Here's a simple JavaScript code example:

function greetUser() {
  alert("Hello, user!");
}
greetUser();

This code will display an alert box in your web browser saying "Hello, user!".

#4. SQL

SQL (Structured Query Language) is used to interact with databases. It's the language for storing, retrieving, and manipulating data.

Why SQL is so important

  • Data Management: SQL is the standard language for managing databases used to store and organize information in a structured way.  
  • Data Analysis: SQL is used to query and analyze data, allowing you to extract insights and make informed decisions.  
  • Widely Used: SQL is used in a wide variety of applications, from e-commerce websites to social media platforms.  

Here's a simple SQL code example:

SELECT * FROM customers;

This code will retrieve all data from the `customers` table in a database.

#5. GO

Go, also known as Golang, is a statically typed, compiled programming language designed at Google. It is known for its simplicity, efficiency, and strong support for concurrent programming. To learn more about Go, check out our course on Golang.

  • Performance: Go is designed to be fast and efficient, with low overhead and high performance. 
  • Concurrency: Go has built-in support for concurrent programming, making it ideal for modern multi-core processors. 
  • Simplicity: Go’s syntax is simple and clean, making it easier to read and write.

Here's a simple Go code example:

package main
import "fmt"
func main() {
    fmt.Println("Hello, world!")
}

This code simply prints the message "Hello, world!" to the console.

#6. Ruby

Ruby is a dynamic, object-oriented programming language that is known for its elegance and readability.  It's used for a variety of purposes, including web development, data analysis, and automation. 

  • Readability: Ruby is designed to be easy to read and write, with a syntax that is often described as "natural."  
  • Object-Oriented: Ruby is an object-oriented language, which means it uses objects to represent data and actions.  

Here's a simple Ruby code example:

puts "Hello, world!"

This code simply prints the message "Hello, world!" to the console.

Choosing the Right Language for You

Now that you have a better understanding of some of the easiest languages to learn, how do you choose the right one for you?

  • Consider your goals: What do you want to build? What are you passionate about? 
  • Research the job market: Which languages are in high demand in your area?
  • Explore different resources: There are tons of online courses, tutorials, and communities dedicated to helping you learn new languages.

Remember, learning a new language is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself, embrace the challenges, and have fun!

Coding Tips for Beginners

  • Start with the basics: Don't try to learn everything at once. Focus on understanding the fundamental concepts of each language.
  • Practice regularly: The key to learning any language is consistent practice. Set aside time each day to code and work on projects.
  • Join a community: Connect with other developers and learn from their experiences.
  • Don't be afraid to ask for help: Plenty of resources are available to help you overcome challenges.

Conclusion 

These six languages are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the world of coding. But they're a great starting point for beginners, providing a solid foundation for you to build upon. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring these languages today and see what you can create!  

Remember, learning to code is a journey, not a race. There will be times when you get stuck, but that's part of the process. Don't be afraid to ask for help, and keep practicing. You'll be amazed at what you can achieve with time and effort.

Barry Ugochukwu

• 6 min read