What Programming Language Should You Learn First?
Choosing your first programming language can be an overwhelming decision, especially with the vast array of options available. As a developer with years of experience in both web and mobile development, I’d like to share my journey and insights to help you decide where to start.
My Journey into Programming
I began my programming journey with JavaScript, along with HTML and CSS, to develop websites. JavaScript is often considered an excellent starting point because:
- Beginner-Friendly: It’s easy to see results quickly, like creating interactive web pages.
- Widely Used: JavaScript powers most of the modern web.
- Versatile: You can use it for frontend (with frameworks like React or Vue) and backend (with Node.js).
After getting comfortable with web development, I tried learning PHP. However, I struggled to enjoy it because of its syntax. This was a personal preference, as many developers love PHP for its simplicity and effectiveness in web development.
Next, I transitioned to Java to build Android applications. Java was a significant shift, requiring a deeper understanding of object-oriented programming and strong typing. Over time, I moved on to mastering Kotlin, a modern, concise, and developer-friendly language for Android development.
Back to Web Development with Laravel
Recently, I returned to web development and discovered Laravel 11, a powerful PHP framework. Laravel’s elegance and feature set made me reconsider my earlier reluctance to learn PHP. Laravel simplifies many complex aspects of web development, offering:
- Elegant Syntax: Laravel’s syntax is clean and expressive, which can make PHP enjoyable.
- Robust Ecosystem: Features like routing, authentication, and database migrations are built-in.
- Active Community: Laravel’s vibrant community means finding resources and support is easy.
Should You Learn PHP?
If you’re considering web development, PHP is still a relevant and valuable skill. While languages like JavaScript dominate the frontend and backend (Node.js), PHP remains a cornerstone of server-side development for many websites and applications. Frameworks like Laravel make PHP development modern and enjoyable.
Tips for Choosing Your First Language
- Set Clear Goals: Do you want to build websites, mobile apps, or data-driven software?
- For web development, start with JavaScript.
- For mobile development, explore Kotlin (Android) or Swift (iOS).
- For backend development, Python or PHP (with Laravel) are great options.
- Consider the Community: A language with an active community provides better learning resources and support.
- Think About Job Opportunities: Research the demand for developers in your chosen field or region.
- Experiment: Try a few languages before committing to one. Tools like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp offer excellent introductions.
My Recommendation
For beginners, I recommend starting with JavaScript due to its versatility and accessibility. As you progress, you may find yourself exploring other languages like PHP, Python, or Kotlin based on your interests and goals.
If you’re already familiar with programming and curious about Laravel, I strongly suggest revisiting PHP. Laravel’s modern approach could transform your perception of PHP, just as it did for me.
Happy coding!