There are several coding languages used for programming. Some of the most common languages include JavaScript, Python, C#, C++, and Ruby. What determines the right type of programming language for someone is how they plan to use it.
With so many types of programming language options out there, you may be confused as to what these individual programming languages actually do.
This guide breaks down the different coding types, their uses, and info on what can be achieved by using these languages. Whether you’re looking for the easiest programming language or something more challenging, you’ll find it here!
What are Coding Languages Used For?
We’ve boasted about the amazing things that can be done with coding, but what are coding languages used for? The answer is a lot.
Every program, app, and machine that has a computer in it runs on code. Below are just some of the things that exist thanks to computer programming.
- Sites like Facebook and Instagram
- Medical machines and records systems that save lives
- Automated factories that build cars
- ECU computer that helps your car run
- Microwaves
Computers are in every aspect of our lives. Hardworking software developers, data scientists, and software engineers have the power to shape how these computers that surround us work.
Knowing how to program will potentially allow you to build anything you could imagine on a computer and some things you can’t. If that sounds appealing then let’s cover some of the base types of computer programming languages.
The Main Types of Coding Languages
There are many types of coding languages. This is because the base language that computers speak, which is just ones and zeros, is far too difficult to use alone. We need some kind of in-between language that humans can use to give effective orders to computers in a reasonable amount of time.
Because all coding languages are just in-betweens, there are many types of languages that provide different levels of functionality. The first factor to consider when organizing these languages is high-level or low-level.
High-Level Programming Languages
High-level coding languages have a higher level of abstraction. This means they are closer to human language, and farther from machine code. High-level languages are easier to learn and use, but they usually offer less functionality and direct control over the computer.
High-level languages tend to be more automated, where a single programming command actually does many pre-programmed things to make programming easier and more efficient.
Low-Level Programming Languages
Low-level coding languages have a lower level of abstraction, and as you might expect, are the opposite of high-level languages. They are closer to binary and farther from human language. Low-level languages are harder to learn and use, but offer more functionality and direct control over the computer. They allow programmers to create far more detailed and efficient computer software.
Major Programming Paradigm
Beyond high-level or low-level, there are different styles of programming, called paradigms. Here are some of the major types of coding language paradigms:
- Object-oriented programming
- Functional programming
- Procedural programming
- Logical programming
- Database programming
How to Choose a Programming Language?
As we learn about the different coding languages throughout this article, you may begin to wonder which coding language to learn. It all comes down to what you want to do with your newfound coding knowledge.
Types of Coding Languages By Use
As we’ve referenced before, there are numerous types of coding languages used throughout the globe. What do these coding languages do and how can we group them by usability? Most environments use a front-end/back-end model, so that’s a good place to start.
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Front End Web Development Coding Languages
A front-end web developer works on the user side of applications. This means that you’ll be coding webpages, games, and any software or application that people can see. For example, a front-end web developer most likely coded the webpage that you’re reading right now.
The list of front end coding languages includes:
HTML
It’s important to understand the scope of HTML. Without the coding language, web pages wouldn’t work. In short, HTML code formats the text, images, and other media that make up a webpage. The language communicates with the computer using a series of attributes and elements. HTML has evolved greatly over time. The language now enables web pages to host videos, sound, and more. It’s important to note that HTML couldn’t make a very functional webpage by itself.
The coding language relies heavily on CSS and JavaScript. To make it as simple as possible, think of HTML as the structure of a website while CSS is the style and JavaScript is the functionality. HTML is a highly important coding language that has continued to help shape the internet and web browsing as we know it.
CSS
CSS or Cascading Style Sheets goes hand in hand with HTML. If HTML is the bread and butter of a website, then CSS is the package that they come in. CSS takes the text-based website that you’ve made and applies things like color, images, videos, and other media to it. CSS makes websites look more appealing to viewers.
JavaScript
JavaScript is the knife that actually spreads the butter onto the bread. JavaScript is all about functionality. JavaScript is one of the most popular coding languages in the coding universe right now. JavaScript is also a highly diverse language that can be used to code anything from video games to websites. It can also be used for both mobile and desktop apps. JavaScript was a required skill for over 470,000 jobs in tech last year. Potential jobs could include web development, front end development, or JavaScript engineering.
Important Notes for Front End Developers:
You’ll need to be familiar with Git and basic web security. It’s important for front-end web developers to stay up to date on the latest innovations in programming and front-end technology. If you should want to switch job roles, learning these skills will prepare you for many other jobs within the tech industry should
Demand for front-end web developers is higher than ever. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for front-end web developers is expected to grow 8% by 2029. Even in the tech field specifically, front end web development remains one of the top job choices by novice coders
Back End Web Development Coding Languages
As one might imagine, back end developers manage the back end of applications or all of the things that take place behind the scenes. This is known as server-side programming. In order for this webpage to show up on your computer, as well as communicate with the servers that house all of Career Karma’s data, a back end web developer had to construct and code that process.
The list of back end coding languages includes:
Python
Python is a general-use programming language meaning that it can be used for almost anything. Python is one of the most popular programming languages among big tech giants and startups. The language is perfect for beginners because it rejects complexity and is very simple to learn. Coders who know Python would be eligible for jobs in back end development, server coding, and more. Popular sites such as Google, Pinterest, Instagram, and Dropbox were all built using Python.
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Java
Not to be confused with JavaScript, Java is a general-purpose coding language that has remained popular for over 20 years. The main benefit of writing in Java is its versatility. Its philosophy has always been “write once, run anywhere”. Java is cross-platform compatible and is the basis for most Android operating systems. The language is favored by industry giants, with over 90% of Fortune 500 companies using Java to build their platforms and support their back end systems. Prominent sites that use Java include Facebook, Amazon, and Yahoo.
Ruby
Ruby is known for having one of the most friendly and widespread coding communities. While learning this coding language, you’ll never be short of helpful mentors to lend a guiding hand during your journey. Ruby is unique because it runs on the Ruby on Rails framework. The syntax of the language is very straightforward and easy to comprehend. Companies such as Twitter, Airbnb, Shopify, and thousands of other startups have built their platforms using Ruby. Ruby is continuously growing in popularity amongst educational outlets too, as many different coding educational platforms now specialize on both Ruby and Ruby on Rails framework.
Important Notes for Back End Developers
Even though you’ll be focusing on the technology happenings behind the scenes, it’s important to still keep the user’s wants and needs in mind when coding your site’s programs.
It’s always a good idea to stay up to date on the latest trends in the back end coding world. What’s popular today may not be popular tomorrow.
Finally, always practice good cybersecurity habits. Since back end developers work with servers and other in-depth info, making sure the site and work are protected is more important than ever before. If your code becomes corrupted, your whole network could potentially go down.
Best Coding Languages for App Development
When creating your own app, it’s important to think about who will be using it. What platforms will your program run on? If you’re focusing on Apple products, C and Objective- C may be the best programs for you as those are the primary programming languages used on Apple products throughout the globe. Swift is also a popular and viable option to use for Apple products. If you’re interested in making apps for Android products, Kotlin, Java, and C++ are some of the most prominent languages used.
Best Coding Languages for Web Development
If you’re interested in making a blog or personal website, the best programming languages might be JavaScript partnered with HTML5 and CSS. These three are usually a package deal and all run very well together. HTML5 is the base of the website (text), CSS is the styling (color, imagery, videos) and JavaScript is the functionality (making the page responsive to users).
Best Coding Languages for Tech Careers
Always dreamed of working for a specific tech giant? One of the most important things you can do is to research which programming languages are favored by that company. If you have a specific employer in mind, it’s always best to check with them directly to see what their programming preferences are.
Company preferences vary greatly as Microsoft may be dedicated to Java, C, C++, and C# but YouTube may specialize in Java, C, C++, Python, and Go. Regardless of who you choose to work for, doing your research, in the beginning, may just land you a job.
How to Start Learning to Code?
Learning to code can be a daunting yet noble task. The job prospects are endless, the creative ability is amazing, and coding is effectively the language of the future.
So, why not learn it? Regardless of which educational path you choose, the power to code is currently at your fingertips. Whether you’re reading this article on your mobile device, tablet, or computer, you can start learning to code right now. The internet is a powerful tool that coders can use to their advantage.
One of the best ways to get started with your coding education is by enrolling in a programming bootcamp. Programming or coding bootcamps are career-forward, immersive programs that teach coding newbies everything they need to know to get a career in tech within the shortest amount of time possible! So, within 3-12 months, you could find yourself sitting at a desk working for your dream company.
Best Coding Bootcamps for Front End Development
General Assembly
General Assembly coding bootcamp has a program specifically for front end web development. The classes take place in several locations across the globe and online. They’re part-time, two days a week, with the entire program lasting about two months. Tuition for General Assembly’s part-time courses is significantly lower than competitors with the online front end development course under $4,000.
CareerFoundry
CareerFoundry is an online coding bootcamp offering a fully comprehensive course in web development. CareerFoundry offers a flexible 15-hour a week, seven-month program that is 100% online. Upfront costs for the program total $5225; however, many financing options are available. CareerFoundry offers a money-back guarantee if you don’t find a web development job within 180 days of graduation.
Best Coding Bootcamp for Back End Programming
Thinkful
Thinkful offers a full-time five-month Software Engineering Immersion. You will learn both front end and back end skills such as building interactive web apps, server-side programming, and advanced front end techniques. Upfront costs for the program total $14,800. Thinkful offers many different payment plans including income share agreements and options for living stipends.
Career Karma’s Resources
If you’re still on the hunt for a coding bootcamp, Career Karma can help! Through the #21DayCkChallenge, you’ll research and interact with different coding bootcamps as you figure out which one is right for you. You’ll even have the chance to attend live webinars with coding bootcamp executives and past alumni to get insight into what life is like at a coding bootcamp.
At the end of your 21 days, you’ll be matched with the coding bootcamp that best suits your interests and needs. In addition to finding a bootcamp, at Career Karma you’ll also find peers, coaches, and mentors dedicated to helping you succeed!
Summary
Here’s a list of all the different types of computer coding languages:
- Object-oriented programming
- Functional programming
- Procedural programming
- Logical programming
- Database programming
Here’s a list of popular programming languages:
- JavaScript scripting language
- C/C++ language
- Java language
- Python programming
- Ruby language
Coding Languages FAQ
HTML, Python, JavaScript, PHP, and Java are some of the easiest, high-level languages for beginning coders to learn.
Assembly, C, C++, C#, and Objective C are some of the tougher programming languages to learn.
Yes! Having skills in programming will serve as an asset to your career and will lead to many high-paying jobs.
There is no “right” way to learn to code! You can learn programming through self-study, a traditional four-year degree, or through a coding bootcamp.
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