What is Computer Programming? Basics to Learn Coding

Details: Last Updated: 22 February 2020

What is Computer Programming?

Computer programming is defined as a process of developing and implementing various set of instructions given to the computer to perform a certain predefined task. Computer Programming is easy if it is appropriately managed. There are many computer programming languages available so finalizing the right language is not an easy task.

Basic of programming

English is the most popular and well-known Human Language. The English language has its own set of grammar rules, which has to be followed to write in the English language correctly.

Likewise, any other Human Languages (German, Spanish, Russian, etc.) are made of several elements like nouns, adjective, adverbs, propositions, and conjunctions, etc. So, just like English, Spanish or other human languages, programming languages are also made of different elements.

Just like human languages, programming languages also follow grammar called syntax. There are certain basic program code elements which are common for all the programming languages.

Most important basic elements for programming languages are:

Programming Environment
Data Types
Variables
Keywords
Logical and Arithmetical Operators
If else conditions
Loops
Numbers, Characters and Arrays
Functions
Input and Output Operations

Applications of computer programming languages

Python	Web and Internet Development, Scientific and Numeric applications, Desktop GUIs, Business applications. It is widely used in AI and Machine Learning space.
Java	Mostly used for developing Android apps, web apps, and Big data.
R	Data Science projects, Statistical computing, Machine learning
Javascript	JavaScript usage include web/mobile app development, game development, and desktop app development.
Swift	Swift is a specially designed language which works with Apple's Cocoa and Cocoa Touch frameworks to create all types of iOS apps.
C++	C++ is widely used in Game Development, Advance Computations, and Graphics Compilers
C#	Widely used in Enterprise Cross-Applications Development, Web Applications
PHP	Web Development, Content Management Systems, eCommerce Applications
SQL	Used in Any Database
Go	Console utilities, GUI applications, and web applications

How to choose a programming language?

Computer programming is a set of written instructions that the computer follows. These instructions can be written in various languages. Each programming languages have their unique ways of organizing the commands which are called syntax.

Multiple programming languages can help you solve the same programming problem. However, you need to select a language that you feel is relevant to perform your task. If you decide that a language does not suit your business requirement, you can always move on to a new language. Your skill in the chosen language will also be a deciding factor. Expected software system response time, a number of simultaneous users, security, maintains, compatibility with web, mobile, devices are few other factors to consider while choosing a language.