Software development is a discipline in the computer science field focusing on the creation of programs that control computer hardware. These computer programs, also known as "software applications" or "apps" for short, are groups of instructions which tell a computer what to do. The software development field, containing many different computer programming languages each designed to fulfill various requirements depending on the project at hand.
It is almost unbelievable to think early programmers did not even have desktop computers to work with, instead punching instructions into paper cards to input into a mainframe computer centrally located in a "machine room". These early instructions were written in what is known as assembly language or machine code, the native language used by all computers. As software development evolved, "higher level" languages were developed patterning natural languages and better reflecting the human problem-solving process. Assembly language is still used today, especially by low-level engineers developing computer components and embedded systems. However, most desktop and web-based development is conducted in high-level languages such as ASP, C++, C#, Java, Perl, etc.
If you ask a hundred programmers, "What is the best programming language for beginners?" you will get one hundred and one answers. Everyone has an opinion, and then some. The question is akin to asking what is the best vehicle to drive - there is simply no right or wrong answer. Some general guidelines do exist, fortunately, to get the novice programmer off to a good start. Those who are completely new to computers and unsure whether they are up to the task (or whether software development will be of interest) should start with a language that is designed to teach basic principles with as little complexity as possible. The BASIC and LOGO programming languages were early attempts to bring computer programming to the masses. Nowadays a language like Microsoft's Visual Basic would be ideal for a beginner. Visual Basic allows you to make practical applications with a visual interface in a matter of hours without getting bogged down by the technical details other more advanced languages. Unlike BASIC and LOGO, Visual Basic has practical applications that can be used in both casual and commercial environments.
Those who are technically inclined or already have a fair amount of experience with computers may be prepared for more advanced programming concepts. For years, Pascal was typically the entry language for such people, used in schools and universities to teach programming at a professional level. Nowadays more "practical" languages like C++, C#, and Java are taught, as they provide a more direct approach to learning how to develop software with tools that are more commercially viable than Pascal.
Programming is not just for nerds or geeks! Its for people who want to succeed online! Learning a software development language can benefit even those who do not specifically pursue bespoke software development as a career or hobby. Learning how to program will help you become more logical in thinking and develop a greater awareness of how computers operate. You will be able to speak more intelligently to other computer professionals you may work with throughout the course of your career.
Inflecto Systems are a sheffield based bespoke software developer that create and develop both windows based and web based custom applications. Visit their site for more information and tips on how to become a software developer yourself.
Article Source:ezine, + Carly Tebbet
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