Wanting to learn computer programming?

Hi,


I'm studying I.T at GCSE, but its so dull and doesnt challenge me. I've tried every OS out there and I want a new challenge - to learn computer programming. Maybe C++?


I'm 15, but I know quite a bit about computer hardware and software after spending years experimenting (and breaking) with things.





Where would you suggest I start? I would love to hear some recommendations from you.


Thank you very much,


John

Wanting to learn computer programming?
http://www.cprogramming.com





It's a good beginner's reference and should really get you knowing whether or not you want to program. ... but don't join the forum. We hate kids because they are, frankly, quite annoying.





I should mention, in regards to the post above me, that to many programmers the recent switch to colleges teaching programming basics in Java has been widely considered a big, big botch up. This is because it doesn't teach fundamental structure nearly as well as C did and is only taught because statistics have shown Java to be the most requested language in the job force. The politicians don't understand that structure greatly outways syntax.
Reply:If you want to learn Windows programming then have a look at VB, it's good to start to understand Windows programming and Java is soo much harder to achieve the same results.


If you want to do web stuff - learn something like PHP, it helps you understand the complications that web applications give you.


If you have the time then learn Java, it covers all of the technologies - but is the hardest to learn. It does give you the advantage as well that your not limited to Windows, Java is platform independent ( done properly ) and as some software vendors are moving more to Linux for there tools - it's not excluding you from that market.


Nige
Reply:Microsoft have just released some cut down versions of the C++ Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It's completely free to download.





They have also released IDE's for C# and Visual Basic.





You can also download Microsoft Visual Web Developer if you are interested in learning dotNet for web applications. Web applications are a really new but upcoming area in programming and you might consider taking this path to have some skills that will be sought after in the future.





You can download the Express Editions from the following web site:





http://www.microsoft.com/express/








Also as part of the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) there is a new site called the Beginner Developer Learning Center, which will give you tips on getting started as a software developer.





Think about buying some books to supplement your learning. Some of the books come with example code and projects that you can work through to aid your learning.





http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/beginne...
Reply:I would start with Java. That's the language that many colleges start out with. It's a good object-oriented language to know. Plus, by learning Java, you'll be able to easily learn C++. Actually, by learning how to program in general, you are getting a good basis on learning how to program in any language. Good luck!
Reply:I would do some research to find a good online course. Make sure they are teaching what you really want to learn. I'm sure there are some good ones out there, but also beware of the ones that arent so good and just want your money.