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Ever wanted to make a program from scratch? Programming can be a very rewarding experience. All the great computer programmers started just like you: with no knowledge but a willingness to read, study, and practice.

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Steps

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    Decide what you would like to do with your programming knowledge. Do you want to learn how to create games, or is web development more your style?
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    Once you decide what you want to accomplish, start reading and find out what programming languages are used. For game making, it would be beneficial to learn one of the C languages. For web development, you should start with HTML and CSS and move on to whichever server-side language you require, such as Perl or PHP.
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    After deciding on your programming language, do some more research and find out what you need to test it. For example, if learning PHP, you will need to download and install a server such as Apache, as well as PHP itself. For a C language, you might have to buy a program, however there are good programs you can get for free to compile a C language.
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    Start reading. Start by the manual for your program, and work your way through the examples. You might try some beginner tutorials.
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    Once you feel comfortable with your language, decide what your first project will be. Pick something simple. If you're learning how to program games, try an easy game such as a number guessing game.
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    Start programming. You will probably find it difficult and have to reference the manual or tutorials quite often, but it's a start.
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    Once you finish your first project, move on to a slightly more difficult project.
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    Eventually you will have enough of a grasp of the language and its syntax, as well as the "theory" of programming, that you can complete more difficult projects.
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    Find a good mentor. A good mentor will accelerate your learning process and help prevent you from making common mistakes.
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Tips

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. Find a good, active forum with plenty of users knowledgeable with the language you've chosen, and ask any questions you need. A real-life friend with experience can help explain difficult concepts and deal with annoying bugs.
  • If you can find a book for your language inexpensive, buy it. It's always good to have a paper reference, but pointless to only have a book since there is an abundance of help on the web.
  • Some good beginner languages for games are: BASIC, FORTH, and the Kid Programming Language.
  • If you start to get discouraged, take a break. You might find that you've "got it" when you come back. Around 15 - 30 minutes from the computer is the best.
  • Stay motivated. Practice as often as you can, because the longer you go without between sessions, the more you will forget.

Warnings

  • Long hours at the computer can cause eye stress, headaches, and back and neck problems, so take breaks often.
  • Typing can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, so be sure to have proper posture.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer

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Article Info

Categories: Programming

In other languages:

Español: Cómo comenzar a programar computadoras, Русский: начать компьютерное программирование, Português: Como Começar a Programar Computadores

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