A person who is just getting started in computer programming may want to know about what are the most popular programming languages. It is a good idea to start learning some of the most popular or in-demand programming languages because having those skills makes a person more desirable to employers. Once a person has a firm understanding of a few popular programming languages, they may have the confidence to branch out into some of the lesser-known or more difficult languages to learn.
- C Programming – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer programming jobs will decline by seven percent between 2018 and 2028. This is why a programmer has to maintain in-demand skills. Learning the C programming language is a good idea because it is one of the oldest languages. Developed by Dennis Ritchie in 1972, it is now a general-purpose language. It is a wise move for a programmer to learn this one first because other popular computer programming languages are based on it. Some of the languages that use C as their foundation include Java, JavaScript and PHP. All of those are in-demand for web design and other programming needs.
- Shell – Shell does not get a lot of fanfare, but it is important to know it. A lot of IT departments use it for telling an operating system what to do. It is used for automating common processes. Some of its functions include remote installation or removal of software. Shell can also be used to copy, back up or manage files from remote locations. In the era of cloud computing and cloud software and applications, knowing Shell could prove to be useful for a new programmer
- Python – Python is the fastest-growing programming language, moving from third place to second in 2019. Its primary uses are in artificial intelligence and data science. Machine learning also relies heavily on Python. Because Python is growing so quickly, there are a lot of conferences and meetups around it. Although Python is robust, it is widely considered to be one of the easiest programming languages to learn, even for a person who is new to computer programming.
- JavaScript – JavaScript has been and continues to be the most popular computer programming language. This is because every website uses it. This is true no matter what type of website or where in the world the site is built. JavaScript is what makes a website interactive, such as allowing a person to click on a hyperlinked word. It is also useful for building games and gaming apps. Despite its name, JavaScript is neither based on Java nor TypeScript. Developers like JavaScript because it has a wide range of functions and is powerful in its utility.
- TypeScript – TypeScript is an open-source computer language developed by Microsoft, and it is one of the fastest-growing computer programming languages. Its syntax is similar to JavaScript, so a person would do well to learn C and JavaScript before learning TypeScript. TypeScript offers more functionality and a more robust command system than JavaScript. It is used by developers to create complex and large-scale applications. Microsoft supports it online through its Visual Studio Code, which is currently the largest open source project on GitHub.
- Java – Java was created by Sun Microsystems in 1995. It is an open-source programming language. Several major companies use it for their web development and interactive features, including Twitter and Netflix. Developers use it to create a website and mobile applications and software that uses databases. Java is also used in a lot of games. Java is similar in context and functionality to C++ and C#, so learning one makes it easy to learn the other two.
- Ruby – Ruby is an open-source language that was created by Yukihiro Matsumoto in 1995, explains Business Insider. It blends parts of other programming languages. Since its release, it has become quite popular. There are several annual conferences around the use of Ruby. As an open-source language, there is a large community of people who are available to answer questions and provide support to learners.
- PHP – PHP is widely used, but it is also widely ridiculed as a disastrous computer language. Even so, it would be a good one to learn for critical thinking skills. PHP is used in website development and interactive site features. A lot of databases use it. Facebook and Yahoo rely heavily on PHP for interactive features and ad displays.
- C# – Like the music note, C# is pronounced “C sharp.” It was created by Anders Hejlsberg, who was a Microsoft employee. The language builds upon Java, not C. This is a good one for a computer programmer to know because it is the basis of most enterprise software. It is also used for mobile applications and games.
- C++ – C++ was created in 1979 by Bjarne Stroustrup as a part of his doctoral thesis work. He built upon C when creating C++. In C++, there are additional features and functions, making it more flexible and powerful. This is one of the most in-demand computer languages, and it is used in game development, apps, operating systems and mobile and desktop browsers.
Less Popular But Important Languages
While these are important computer languages to know, some software engineering, web development and cybersecurity firms may look for a programmer with advanced knowledge of some of the lesser-known languages. Those include Rust, Go and Lua, explains Tech Republic.
Each of these computer programming languages is a good skill to maintain. It is important to remember that some of the techniques or terminology can change over time, and some new functions could be added to the language. Understanding what are the most popular programming languages allows a budding computer programmer to focus their time on an effort that will pay the most dividends.
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