I want to start coding, where do I start?

Question

I'm primarily a graphic designer but would like to develop skills in writing basic code. I'd like to create a little program or code that would allow me to do the following tasks.

Sheet of events,dates and times etc is either typed or uploaded through excel to a database which then displays by date. As each event or task is completed a drop down box can be selected highlighting the event has been completed. Maybe fit in a progress bar of how many tasks have been completed. It'd also need to be able to be edited by different people across a computer network and then updates its display.

The reason I want to make this is really as a personal organiser and as a little project as I enjoy learning new skills.

What would be the best way/language to go about writing this? I understand this will be incredibly basic to all you.

Any answers or directions to resources would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

(assuming you are running windows)

Pick a language

• I'ld go for Microsoft.NET C#.
• It's VERY easy to interact with databases (Access or SQL Server).
• You can choose to make a console (command line), web or windows application
• The free IDE (basically a fancy editor) is awesome. http://www.microsoft.com/Express/
• You can choose VB.NET as well, some people find it easier to start there.
• You won't spend hours installing and configuring web servers etc.

Pick a book

• Try something like Sams Teach Yourself ASP.NET 3.5 in 24 Hours to get you up to speed.
• Spend a couple weeks working through the book and then you can start thinking about your own project.

Answer 2

PHP isn't bad for learning what does code actually does. the bad thing is that it's just too easy to create spaghetti code. if you really want to learn, and grow from there, don't be satisfied when it works. after doing it, try to redo it again with your new knowledge. there's a maxim "don't be afraid to throw out your code, you will anyway". it's even more true when learning.

Answer 3

PHP + Dreamweaver.

lot of reading at php.net and keep asking.

Answer 4

The easiest way to do this might be to just use a spreadsheet.

You could use Google Apps so that it could be publicly editable. http://www.google.com/apps

Answer 5

Developing applications is more than just writing code - its finding out how to architect a solution, determining the best plan of attack and being able to easily roll with changes and/or unexpected events.

As a beginner you'll be challenged with not only learning a programming language, but possibly even a framework on top of that (so you know how to use your programming skills) in addition to just learning a UI(s) ie: visual studio, etc.

It really comes down to personal preference, but in my opinion especially if you have a windows background, then .NET would be the easiest to setup and begin using. You also have the choice of programming languages (VB.NET and c# for example), etc.

Answer 6

First, there is a difference between learning to program and learning a programming language. This is similar to the distinction between learning to build a wardrobe and learning to use a hammer.

If you know this you can save yourself a lot of confusion afterwards. If you want to learn to program a very good starting point are the MIT OpenCourseWare lectures: Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs. These lectures help you grasp the fundamental concepts of programming. There is also a book accompanying these.

At the same time you can learn any programming language you like. Although these lectures focus primarily on functional ones, this need not worry you. The concepts are applicable on any language and help a lot! The rest is details. :)

As for language choice: If I would start programming again today I personally would want to start with Python.

Answer 7

In your graphic design, does your primary application have a scripting or macro language? If so you could learn basic programming there, and in a context you already understand. You would be learning the concepts of programming and then use those ideas in a full programming platform, assuming your scripting language is robust enough. It would at least get your feet wet.

Which application do you use in your graphic design?

Also, you mentioned Excel. You could use the Record Macro feature and then view code. This also would at least let you see things in the background. It won't teach you how to program, however. It won't be the prettiest code, but it will let you see things.

Answer 8

You can read other comments there: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/419959/language-for-non-programmers-to-start-learning-programming/420063#420063