Learning Scala is worth it. Scala is widely perceived as a complex programming language. Even though it did not rank high on Stackoverflow’s list of the most popular languages in 2021, Scala is still one of the top ten paying programming languages. If Stackoverflow’s findings are still not enough to convince you, below are more reasons to consider Scala.
What Is Scala?
Scala, also known as Scalable Language, is a multi-paradigm, functional programming language that combines functional programming paradigm and object oriented programming. Its static type system prevents bugs in complex applications by expressing common programming patterns concisely. Its JVM and JavaScript runtimes aim to build high-performance systems with easy access to massive library ecosystems.
Is Scala Worth Learning in 2022?
Scala is worth learning in 2022. The demand for Scala developers is high, and the pay is good. LinkedIn currently lists over 24,000 Scala jobs. According to ZipRecruiter, the average Scala developer salary in the United States is $139,292 a year.
5 Reasons Scala Is Worth Learning
Still not convinced that learning Scala is worth your time and energy? Besides the high demand for Scala developers and the high pay you could earn in this field, below are more reasons why learning Scala is worth it.
Compatibility With Java
Scala runs on Java Virtual Machine (JVM). As a result, it can seamlessly interoperate with Java code, allowing you to use Java libraries directly from Scala code. In other words, you can call Scala code from Java and write parts of your program in Scala and the rest in Java. It is not surprising if Scala becomes a mainstream language with this feature.
Multi-Paradigm Language
Scala differs from Java because it supports both object oriented and functional programming paradigms. You can develop more competitive programming skills by learning one language from each paradigm, such as imperative, logical, functional, and OOP. Scala allows you to learn functional programming and object oriented programming at the same time.
Static Typing
Static typing helps you detect programming errors quickly, reliably, and automatically without running a program. This is contrary to dynamic typing, where you find errors once you run the program. Scala is a statically typed language but often feels like a flexible and dynamic language. You can work more efficiently with your accurate code, saving time on debugging and testing.
Concise Syntax
Scala is compiled and statically typed, as mentioned earlier. It is far more concise than Java. In the book, The Well-Grounded Java Developer, Scala is likened to a scripting language because of its “concise and beautiful code.” Creating concise and clean code allows a Scala developer to work much faster and more productively.
Efficiency and Productivity
Scala’s multi-paradigm and static typing features, concise syntax, and Java compatibility make you an efficient and productive developer. You can write fewer lines of code, finish projects faster, reduce bugs early, and improve the end-user experience of your program.
How to Learn Scala for Free
You can learn Scala for free in an online school. In fact, a Stackoverflow poll revealed nearly 60 percent of respondents learned to code online. Furthermore, you have a wide range of options, from MOOCs to bootcamps. Here are some programs that you can explore.
| Resource | Provider | Type of Resource | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bootcamp [Scala] | Evolution Engineering | Bootcamp | 3 to 5 months |
| Effective Programming in Scala | Coursera | MOOC | 49 hours |
| Functional Programming Principles in Scala | Coursera | MOOC | 56 hours |
| Scala Programming Mini Boot camp For Beginner | Udemy | Bootcamp Prep Course | 1 hour and 3 minutes |
| Scala for Beginners | All About Scala | Book | Self-paced |
Is Learning Scala Worth It?
Learning Scala is worth it. While Scala is perceived as a complex programming language, the benefits of learning it are undeniable. You’ll learn two programming language paradigms at the same time. Scala’s array of features will help you work more efficiently and productively.
FAQ: Is Scala Worth Learning?
You should choose the programming language that aligns with your goals. Python is a more popular language, and it pays more. Meanwhile, Scala is statically typed, allowing you to find errors faster, but you must specify objects. You do not need to specify objects in Python, but you will encounter errors after running your program.
Yes, you can use Java code in Scala. Scala is highly compatible with Java, so combining the two languages is not a problem.
It takes around two to three months to learn Scala if you don’t know Java. If you have used Java, you can learn Scala in a month.
Scala is easy to learn if you know Java. Familiarity with popular programming languages like C, C++, or Python will help you quickly grasp Scala concepts if you don’t know Java.
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