Programming Basics
Programming Languages Explained for Beginners
Why are there so many programming languages, and does the choice matter? A plain-English look at what languages have in common, how…
Programming Basics
The ideas every language shares. Start here if you have never written code before: what a program is, how variables and loops work, and how to think through a problem before you type anything.
10 guides
Programming Basics
What Is an Algorithm? Explained Without the Maths
An algorithm is just a clear set of steps for getting something done. Here is what that means in code, why some…
Programming Basics
Arrays and Lists Explained (With Simple Examples)
A list holds many values under one name, in order. Here is how to read, add, remove and loop over items —…
Programming Basics
Functions Explained for Beginners
A function is a named set of steps you can run whenever you need it. Here is how to write one, what…
Programming Basics
Loops Explained for Beginners
A loop repeats a block of code so you do not have to write it out ten times. Here is the difference…
Programming Basics
If Statements Explained for Beginners
An if statement lets your program choose between paths. Here is how conditions work, how to combine them, and why one equals…
Programming Basics
What Are Data Types? A Plain-English Guide
A data type is what kind of thing a value is — a number, some text, a true/false answer, or a collection.…
Programming Basics
Variables Explained With Simple Examples
A variable is a name you attach to a value so your program can use it again. Here is how variables work,…
Programming Basics
What Is Programming? A Simple Beginner’s Guide
Programming is writing step-by-step instructions a computer can follow. Here is what that really means, the five ideas every language shares, and…
Programming Basics
Python or JavaScript first? A practical breakdown
Both are strong first languages. The right pick depends less on popularity and more on whether you want to see something on…
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Where to go next
Python
Plain-English Python guides, from your first line of code to small programs that do real work.
14 guides
JavaScript
How JavaScript works in the browser, explained with short examples you can paste and run.
11 guides
Web Development
HTML, CSS and the pieces that turn code into a page people can visit.
4 guides
Keep going — pick your next guide
The fastest way to improve is to read one guide, then build the thing it describes. Start with the basics, or jump straight to a project.