The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Which Language to Learn in 2021

Are you ready to dive into the world of programming? With so many languages to choose from, deciding which one to learn can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, this ultimate guide will help you make an informed decision.

Learning to code is an investment in your future, and choosing the right language is crucial. Technology, job opportunities, and personal interests are just some of the factors to consider when choosing a programming language.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most in-demand languages of 2021, what to consider before making your decision, popular use cases for different languages, learning resources and communities, and tips for staying motivated. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and start your programming journey.

So, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced programmer looking to expand your skillset, keep reading to discover which language to learn in 2021 and take the first step towards achieving your programming goals.

The most in-demand programming languages in 2021

Programming languages are constantly evolving, and every year new ones emerge while others lose popularity. However, certain languages remain in high demand for various reasons. Python, for instance, has been consistently gaining traction due to its versatility, ease of use, and community support. It is widely used in data science, machine learning, and web development. Similarly, JavaScript continues to be a staple language in web development, particularly for front-end programming and creating interactive user interfaces.

Java is another language that remains popular in the industry, particularly for building enterprise applications. Its object-oriented programming structure and extensive libraries make it an ideal choice for large-scale projects. Meanwhile, C# is a language that’s gaining more attention in the game development industry, thanks to its ability to create high-performance games.

Another language worth mentioning is Swift, which is used for developing iOS applications. With the continued growth of the mobile app market, Swift remains a valuable language to learn for those interested in mobile app development. Go, also known as Golang, is a newer language that is quickly gaining popularity for its simplicity and efficiency, particularly for system-level programming and building web servers.

Ultimately, the most in-demand programming languages will depend on the industry, project requirements, and individual interests. However, learning any of the above languages can give developers a competitive edge and open up more job opportunities.

Now that we’ve looked at the most in-demand programming languages in 2021, let’s dive into the factors that you should consider when choosing a language to learn.

Python

1. Popularity: Python has consistently ranked among the top programming languages in terms of popularity for the past few years. Its easy-to-read syntax and extensive libraries make it a favorite among beginners and professionals alike.

2. Applications: Python is widely used in a variety of applications such as web development, scientific computing, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Its versatility and flexibility have made it a go-to language in many industries.

3. Learning curve: Python is considered one of the easiest languages to learn due to its simple syntax and straightforward programming concepts. Its readability also makes it easy to understand and maintain code, which is a crucial aspect in software development.

4. Job opportunities: Python’s popularity and wide range of applications have led to an increasing demand for skilled developers. From start-ups to large corporations, companies across different industries are looking for professionals who are proficient in Python.

5. Resources: Python has a vast community of developers who contribute to its libraries, frameworks, and tools. The language also has plenty of online resources, including tutorials, documentation, and forums, making it easy to find help and support while learning.

Whether you’re interested in web development, data analysis, or artificial intelligence, Python is a versatile language that can help you achieve your goals. With its simple syntax, extensive libraries, and large community, Python is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced programmers. So why not start learning today and discover the endless possibilities of Python?

Factors to consider before choosing a programming language

Your end goal: Before choosing a programming language, you need to consider what you want to achieve with it. If you want to build a website, you may want to choose a different language than if you want to develop a mobile app.

Learning curve: Some languages are easier to learn than others. If you’re a beginner, you may want to choose a language with a lower learning curve like Python.

Job prospects: If you’re learning a programming language for career purposes, it’s important to consider the job market for that language. For example, Java and Python are in high demand for software development jobs.

Community and support: Some programming languages have larger communities and better support than others. Choosing a language with a strong community can help you find resources and get help more easily.

Compatibility: It’s important to consider the compatibility of the programming language with other tools and systems you may be using. For example, if you’re developing a website, you may want to choose a language that works well with your chosen content management system (CMS).

Purpose and goals of your project

When considering which programming language to learn, it’s important to consider the purpose and goals of your project. Are you building a website, a mobile app, or working on data analysis? Each project may require a different language or set of languages.

If you’re building a website, languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript will likely be necessary. For mobile app development, Java, Kotlin, or Swift may be required. For data analysis, Python or R are often used.

Understanding the scope and scale of your project can also help determine the appropriate programming language. For small projects, a language with a smaller learning curve like JavaScript may be suitable. For larger projects, a language like Java may be necessary for scalability and maintainability.

Compatibility with existing systems should also be considered. If you’re working within an organization that has established systems, it may be necessary to choose a language that integrates well with those systems.

Finally, job market demand for a particular language may also be a factor to consider, especially if you’re learning with career advancement in mind.

Learning curve and your current skillset

If you’re a beginner, starting with a language that has a low learning curve, such as Python or JavaScript, can be a great way to build a strong foundation. However, if you have some experience in programming and want to take on more challenging projects, C++ or Java may be a better fit.

It’s also important to consider your current skillset. If you already have experience with a specific language, learning a language that builds on that knowledge, such as learning TypeScript after mastering JavaScript, can be a great way to expand your skillset while building on what you already know.

Another factor to consider is the resources available to you. If you have access to a mentor or community that is experienced in a particular language, it may be easier for you to learn that language, even if it has a steeper learning curve.

Popular use cases for different programming languages

Data Science: Python and R are the most popular languages for data science due to their extensive libraries and tools for data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling.

Web Development: JavaScript, HTML, and CSS are essential for building responsive web applications. Server-side programming languages like PHP, Ruby, and Python are used for web development.

Mobile App Development: Java and Kotlin are used for Android app development, while Swift and Objective-C are used for iOS app development. Cross-platform development tools like React Native and Xamarin are also popular.

Game Development: C++ is the most popular language for game development due to its speed and performance. Game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine support scripting in languages like C# and Python.

Desktop App Development: Languages like C++, Java, and Python are commonly used for desktop app development. C# and .NET framework are also popular for building desktop applications on Windows platforms.

Java for enterprise applications and Android apps

Enterprise applications: Java is widely used in developing enterprise applications. Its platform independence, scalability, and security make it an ideal choice for developing complex enterprise systems. Java frameworks like Spring and Hibernate make it easier to develop enterprise applications by providing pre-built modules and reducing the amount of code that needs to be written from scratch.

Android apps: Java is the primary programming language used for developing Android applications. With the Android Software Development Kit (SDK) and Java, developers can build and deploy applications that run on millions of Android devices. Java is a popular choice for Android development because of its simplicity, readability, and the vast range of libraries and frameworks available.

Performance: Java is a high-performance language that can handle large-scale applications without sacrificing speed. Its Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation feature enables it to compile code at runtime, which improves performance and reduces memory usage.

JavaScript for web development and front-end programming

JavaScript is a versatile language used for developing web applications and front-end programming. It is an essential part of building interactive websites that provide a great user experience.

With JavaScript, developers can create dynamic and responsive web pages that can interact with users and adapt to different devices and screen sizes. It is widely used for creating web animations, games, and other interactive elements that make websites more engaging and user-friendly.

Node.js, a JavaScript runtime environment, has also become popular for server-side programming, allowing developers to use JavaScript for both front-end and back-end development.

Learning resources and communities for various programming languages

Online courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and edX offer various courses on different programming languages that cater to beginners and experts alike. These courses range from free to paid, and offer comprehensive learning resources.

Documentation: The official documentation of a programming language is the best place to start learning. They offer detailed explanations, examples, and tutorials to help you understand the language better.

Online communities: Communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit, and GitHub are great places to connect with other developers and learn from their experiences. You can ask questions, get feedback, and collaborate with others to improve your skills.

Books: Books on programming languages can provide comprehensive and detailed explanations of the language, making it easier to understand complex concepts. They also provide exercises and projects that help in hands-on learning.

Stack Overflow and GitHub for problem-solving and collaboration

• Stack Overflow: As a programmer, you’ve probably heard of Stack Overflow. It’s a community-driven Q&A website for developers to ask and answer technical questions related to programming. You can find solutions to problems you’re facing, and you can contribute by answering questions others have posted.
• GitHub: GitHub is a web-based platform for version control and collaborative software development. It’s a great resource for open-source projects, where developers from around the world can contribute to codebases, report issues, and propose changes. GitHub also offers features like pull requests and code reviews, making it easier to collaborate and ensure code quality.
• Integration: Stack Overflow and GitHub can be integrated to create a seamless workflow. For example, you can use Stack Overflow to find solutions to problems, and then contribute to an open-source project on GitHub by submitting a pull request. GitHub also has integrations with other tools like Slack and Trello, making it easy to collaborate with your team.

Overall, both Stack Overflow and GitHub offer invaluable resources for problem-solving and collaboration in the programming community. By utilizing these tools, you can improve your skills, contribute to open-source projects, and connect with other developers from around the world.

Online courses and tutorials like Codecademy and Udemy

If you prefer a structured learning approach, online courses and tutorials can be helpful. Codecademy offers interactive coding lessons in various programming languages. Udemy has a vast library of courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

edX offers courses from top universities like MIT and Harvard. Coursera has a vast selection of courses, including programming languages, data science, and machine learning.

FreeCodeCamp offers a free coding curriculum for web development. It also offers certifications that can be helpful in job applications.

Meetup groups and online communities for networking and support

If you want to connect with other developers and get involved in the programming community, there are many online communities and meetup groups you can join.

One popular online community is Reddit, where you can find subreddits dedicated to specific programming languages, frameworks, and technologies. You can ask questions, share knowledge, and participate in discussions with other developers.

Meetup.com is another great resource for finding local programming groups and events. You can search for groups based on your location and interests and attend events to network with other developers.

Discord and Slack are also popular platforms for developer communities. You can join channels related to your interests or industry and participate in discussions, ask questions, and share knowledge with other members.

If you are interested in getting involved in open-source projects, you can join communities on platforms like GitHub and GitLab. These platforms allow you to collaborate with other developers on open-source projects, contribute code, and learn from experienced developers.

Tips for staying motivated while learning a new programming language

Learning a new programming language can be challenging, but staying motivated is crucial to mastering it. Here are some tips to keep yourself motivated:

Set realistic goals: Break down the language into small and achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the learning process.

Practice regularly: Consistency is key when learning a new programming language. Set aside a dedicated time for practicing every day or every week, and stick to it.

Find a learning partner: Learning with someone else can help you stay motivated and accountable. Join a study group, find a coding partner, or enroll in an online course with a supportive community.

Celebrate your progress: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your progress. This will help you stay motivated and keep you moving forward.

Set achievable goals and track your progress

Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable ones: Instead of aiming to learn an entire language in one go, set smaller, more achievable goals such as mastering a specific feature or completing a smaller project. This can make the process less daunting and help you feel a sense of progress.

Use a progress tracker: Tracking your progress can help you see how far you’ve come and motivate you to keep going. Whether it’s a simple spreadsheet or a dedicated app, find a way to track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.

Find a study partner: Learning with someone else can provide accountability, motivation, and the opportunity to bounce ideas off each other. Join online communities or local groups to find someone to study with and share your progress with.

Take breaks and reward yourself: Learning a new programming language can be intense and mentally draining. Take regular breaks and reward yourself for reaching milestones, whether it’s with a snack, a walk outside, or a game break.

Find a study group or accountability partner

One of the best ways to stay motivated while learning a new programming language is to find a study group or an accountability partner. These individuals can help keep you on track and provide support and encouragement as you progress.

You can find study groups or partners through online forums or social media groups, or by attending local programming meetups. Look for groups or individuals who are learning the same language as you, or who have experience in the language and can offer guidance.

When working with a study group or partner, it’s important to set clear goals and expectations. Determine how often you’ll meet or check in with each other, and establish what specific topics or skills you’ll focus on during your sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions