Top 5 Tips For Kids/Teenagers Who Want To Start Programming

Young Gnomie Emor Upton writes:

I have been programming since I was 11 years old, and I am now 13 years old. I have noticed that the number of people in my age range who want to learn or know programming languages is increasing, and I’d like to share a list that would of came in very handy for me when I first started.

1. When you first start programming, don’t choose something too advanced — for example, Action Script — first because it involves math you may not even know (like Algebra) and second, it’s not ideal for learning basic programming language concepts like variables. Trying to learn a complicated language first could confuse you and put you off programming for good when really it’s not that hard if you choose the right language. I recommend either QBasic or HTML for beginners. Even though HTML is more Web design than actually making applications, it is very simple and easy to learn, and is handy to know.

2. Don’t be too ambitious when you choose your language. For example, don’t try and make a game once you just get C. Progress slowly. It may sound boring, but this way you’ll find it much easier when it comes to making a game or a more advanced application.
3. Find a good tutorial. If you just click the first result in a Google Search, you may end up with a really complex tutorial, or one with poor grammar that’s too hard to understand. Also, in my experience, you only end up getting frustrated when you ask a friend to teach you. I highly recommend just reading a tutorial rather than asking your friends to teach you — it’s so much more effective. Of course, asking a friend for help here and there is fine. Just don’t overdo it.
4. Don’t just copy and paste the code. You never learn anything from copying and pasting, though it may seem tempting (and I was VERY tempted to do so when I was learning Action Script).
5. If you find that you’re still not comfortable with your chosen language after a week or so, leave it. I have been in this position and never knew that programming could be fun if I just picked the right language. So just experiment a bit and choose the language that suits you (but don’t try and learn 5 languages at once, obviously).

Tags: computer programming, learning to program, Programming