The Best Approaches to Take When Learning a New Programming Language

Some programmers can pick up new languages in the blink of an eye. For others, it can definitely take some time. For the most part, learning to code comes down to your learning style and its effectiveness. Once you know how to code in one language, it paves the way to learn other languages. If you are looking into new programming languages, we’re here to guide you in the learning process by discussing helpful approaches and tips. 

Learn the Language First, then Learn the Framework 

It can be easy to become distracted when learning a new programming language, considering that there are many elements to learn. The main reason for learning a new language is to be able to successfully use a framework. With that being said, you must know the language before putting its framework into action. 

Team Up with Someone Who is Familiar with the Language 

You don’t always have to start at the bottom to learn a new programming language. Many programmers have found that learning a new language is best done when you can work with someone who knows the language rather well. Listening to how someone processes code can help you gain more insight into how your new computer language works. 

Strive to Understand, Not to Perfect 

All programmers have a shared goal of writing the most efficient and cleanest code, but this is where your learning can get stuck. When getting caught up in the idea of perfection, it can be difficult to learn a language in the best way possible. Without making mistakes, you will never be able to fully understand a new programming language. Allot yourself the amount of time you need to learn a new programming language, very well knowing you might make some mistakes along the way. 

Practice the Code as Much as Possible 

This may be an obvious suggestion, but the thing is that many people tend to forget how important it is to make a routine of practice in order to fully understand a language and how it operates. Of course, reading up on a language works, but once you start coding and putting the language to the test, that’s when real learning takes place. 

Use Debugging Tools and Techniques

Just like we mentioned, making mistakes along the way is part of the learning process. Although, we understand how difficult it can be to go back and trace your steps to find where you went wrong. It can be time-consuming, but this is where debugging tools can help. These tools can help speed the process up by identifying the mistakes, and from there, you can fix them and continue working with your new programming language. 

Use Online Resources

In the case that you might not know anyone familiar with your new programming language, you can always lean towards online resources. There are many other people out there that are trying to learn new programming languages just like you. Most coders who learned through the internet were able to get helpful information from documents, example codes, and Q&A sites. All you need to worry about is finding the right resources that would work best for you. 

Set Realistic Goals 

Learning a new programming language takes a lot of patience, time, and dedication. Overworking yourself can defeat the whole purpose of learning a language. To set goals that work for you, you can try setting a specific amount of time aside every week to learn the language. Sticking to a routine provides structure and helps space out the amount of work you have to do when practicing the language. 

Don’t Try to Learn Everything in One Sitting

Of course, you can try to learn everything in a few sittings, but you’ll find yourself overworked and unable to retain all the information. Learning a programming language isn’t an overnight thing. If you are having trouble or run into a roadblock, take some time to get yourself in a better headspace and you can resume working and practicing. 

Use a Learning Style that Works for You 

Lastly, the best approach to take is one that you know will work in your favor. By this, we mean whether you best learn visually or by reading and writing information down. If you are a visual learner, you can use code snippets, mind maps, and videos to better understand. If you like to read and write, you can always use articles, blog posts, and language documentation to refer back to. 

Get Quality Programming from the Professionals at Marble Computer  

Learning a new programming language is a rewarding skill that will take you far as a well-rounded and knowledgeable coder. You can find a programming language that works best for you with help from our professionals. Contact Marble Computer today to learn more about the services we offer.