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Happy Programming Guide
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Start Here — Learn Programming From Nothing

A single ordered path from "I have never written code" to "I have finished a project". Read these in order and you will not have gaps.

If you have never written code, start here. This page is one ordered path — read it top to bottom over a few weeks and you will not end up with gaps.

Everything linked below is free to read on this site.

Step 1 — Understand what programming is#

Before syntax, get the shape of it: what a program is, what a computer actually does with your file, and the five ideas every language shares.

Step 2 — Learn the five building blocks#

These appear in every language. Learn them once and they transfer everywhere.

  1. Variables explained
  2. What are data types?
  3. If statements explained
  4. Loops explained
  5. Functions explained
  6. Arrays and lists explained

Step 3 — Pick one language and go deep#

Pick one. Learning two at once mostly teaches you to confuse their syntax.

Python — the gentlest syntax, and excellent for automation, files and data. Start with installing it, then your first program.

JavaScript — already in your browser, so you see results immediately. Best if you want to build things people can visit.

Step 4 — Learn to read errors#

This is the skill that separates people who keep going from people who quit. Do not skip it.

Step 5 — Build something#

Reading about code and writing code are different skills. Around this point, stop reading for a week and build.

Step 6 — Set up your tools properly#

Step 7 — Keep going#

Free tools to help you decide#

If you are unsure where to start, these run in your browser and store nothing on our servers:

Begin hereWhat is programming? Start with step one