What is the language for absolute beginners

S

sleepy mac

Registered
I'm a complete noob to all things computerised and net related, so I apologise if this post is in the wrong thread.

I wish to learn how to program with my Mac, but can't seem to find a very basic tutorial or any thing. So I decided to purchase a complete package tutorial and software included, only to realise I don't even know what language I should learn. Now here I am, asking the wisdom of the collective to share a piece and help me on my way to enlightenment.

Any help will be the most help any one can give. Nowhere but up from here, right.
 
From Apple;

Programming with Xcode

Apple provides some groundbreaking tools for creating software for Mac OS X. Xcode is an integrated development environment that allows you to use a single tool to develop software using C, C++, Objective-C, Java, or AppleScript.

Xcode lets you:

Easily assemble software with the Aqua interface by using Interface Builder

Author AppleScripts using powerful programming and debugging tools in AppleScript Studio

Use powerful debugging and performance optimization tools

Easily import and migrate code
For more information on Xcode and other Apple Development tools, see the Apple Developer website.
 
Programming is something extremely difficult to dive into if you have little to no computer experience. I think you'll find only frustration if you try to teach yourself how to program.

My recommendation would be to take classes on basic programming so that you gain an understanding as to how programs are written and what "tools" you have available to you. From there, the rest is just semantics. It would be like learning English, then learning Spanish and French -- sure, there are some "gotchas" and what-not in translating, but you've got to learn how to speak in at least one language if you want to learn another -- for example, you can't learn how to speak Spanish if you don't already know how to speak in some other language.

With that said, I think that plain old C is a great language to learn. You'll learn the basics of structuring programs, using variables and data structures, and pseudo-object orientation for when you want to learn an object-oriented language like Objective-C or Java. C is the language that UNIX was written in, and it's the basis for much of what we call modern programming. Since all programming languages share things like variables, data structures, and a flow of code, understanding the basics is key to knowing any and all languages.

Java is also a great introductory programming language.
 
First, since no version of MacOS X was provided ... if you have the 'Panther' installation CD's, the fourth one allows the installation of the 'Developer' folder and related 'Xcode', 'Interface Builder', 'Property List Editor', etc. applications, and documentation. If you have Tiger, everything is installed via the one DVD.

Second, in addition to the languages capable of being coded via 'Xcode', one can code in java, perl, python, and ruby via 'Terminal', with / withoug some respective language 'Editors'.

Third, knowing where you resided is also helpful.
If you live near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there are a few free developer groups: 'MLMUG PSIG', 'PAASUG', and '''PHAD'.
 
There are, however, also great entry-level tutorials to be found on the 'net. I think the internet is a _great_ resource for learning how to program. Also, you can learn programming with books. Having a teacher around leading you might be easier, but there's a lot to be learned from mistakes, too. ;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top