Coding refers to the usage of programming languages to command computers with precise instructions. People code for a variety of reasons—to automate tasks, compute numbers, and develop software. The question is, can anyone learn to code?
Short answer? Yes. Anyone can learn to code. With hundreds of online course options, the resources are there to learn computer programming. Whatever your age—even if you’re in high school—computer programming skills are highly desirable. All you need is access to the internet, problem-solving skills, and time to study this high-paying skill set.
Can I learn to code with no experience?
While it’s not easy, anyone can learn to code without prior experience. Coding is a lot like solving puzzles—if you enjoy that kind of problem-solving, then you will likely enjoy learning to code.
If you’re new to computer tech, try taking an online course. Beginners will learn about the fundamentals of computer sciences and build a strong foundation for continued learning. You enjoying introductions and basic tutorials might be a sign to continue.
How do I learn to code with no experience?
Coding schools, online courses, and online bootcamps are great ways to begin. Some recommendations for coding bootcamps include edX, the App Academy, the Lambda School, and FreeCodeCamp. Before registering for a bootcamp, consider your budget, the coding languages and computing skills you want to learn, and whether you want to learn full-time or part-time.
Is coding for me?
Successful computer programming learners enjoy problem-solving and writing lines of code. Their skills are applicable in a variety of fields, such as machine learning and software engineering. If you enjoy tackling problems and are interested in tech fields, coding is probably for you. You will become a strong coder if you are internally motivated, love learning, and develop strong problem-solving skills.
Is it hard to learn to code?
Just like learning a foreign language, learning to program can be challenging. But once you learn one programming language and pick up a few programming concepts like algorithms and data structures, the process gets much easier.
What programming languages are easier for beginners?
Python and Java are some of the most accessible programming languages. Python, especially, is one of the most common languages used to teach beginners because of how easy it is to read and write, relative to other programming languages such as C or C++.
Learning C or C++ will get you familiar with important concepts such as computer memory management, computer hardware, and stricter language rules.
You can also learn templating languages such as HTML or query languages such as SQL, but for general programming this is not recommended. Whereas languages such as Python, Java, and even Scala are general programming languages with many use-cases, HTML and SQL have specific use-cases (structuring online documents and interacting with databases, respectively) and do not teach more general programming principles.
If you are interested in developing web applications, JavaScript is a good option. With JavaScript, you must become familiar with interactive website elements like buttons and images, but unlike with HTML, you will also need to become familiar with good programming practices and software development principles.
Once you learn one general programming language, others become much easier to learn. More important than choosing a language is just getting started with a language.
Does coding require math?
Coding doesn’t require as much math as you would think. As long as you passed basic high school math and have a knack for solving puzzles, you’ll have enough to get started writing code.
On the most basic level, you need to know pre-algebra, which includes:
- Rounding numbers
- Scientific notation
- Unit conversions
Specific domains require more complicated math. For instance, if you want to break into fields like machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science, you’ll need to know advanced math like:
- Statistics
- Probability
- Combinatorics
However, coding by itself does not require extensive math experience.
Is coding a good career?
Coding is a high-paying, high-demand job. Every business that uses computers relies on code, and it can be hard to find quality talent.
Many companies in Silicon Valley pay programmers handsomely. Even if you don't work for Mark Zuckerberg, tech startups are known to offer generous benefits.
A programming career is also mentally stimulating. You’ll be learning new programming languages, keeping up to date with computer updates, and thinking about the best ways to solve problems and improve user experiences.
When things get frustrating, whether that involves disagreements in a team or debugging an application, you will need to know how to pace yourself and reset. As with any job role, programmers face the risk of burnout. Many programmers work remotely and can find themselves missing the social interactions and external motivation to keep up with work.
How much do coders make?
On average, computer programmers make roughly $64,000 per year before bonuses. Specialized coders make even more money. In 2020, on average, software engineers earned $107,772; database administrators earned $95,720; and web developers earned $76,754.
Salaries for coding-related jobs vary between location, experience, and specializations. Many states have their own tech hub; the highest paying states for programmers include New York, California, and Texas—and their major tech hubs are New York City, Silicon Valley, and Austin respectively.
Coders have the opportunity to earn higher salaries with specializations and experience. Effective ways to increase your salary include earning extra certifications, advanced degrees, and making connections in the tech industry. To get connected to tech startups, look into BuiltIn; BuiltIn connects creative talent to tech hubs.
Learn to code with edX
Almost anyone can learn to code. The challenge is finding the right resources. edX offers bootcamps and free online courses for computer programming, computer science, and a wealth of subfields such as data science, machine learning, and more.
If you are trying to launch a new career or want to improve your programming skills, get started with an edX programming course today!
