There are many ways to which someone can choose to program, but I think a lot of people don't realise the potential that is out there. People can choose to do electronic programming which is known as low-level programming, or develop software of their own (high-level programming). Both of which are now widely available, but nevertheless the processes carried out in the two are different. Without a doubt, programming is easier and more flexible than people think or make it out to be. At the most, with a month's learning anyone can grasp the basics, start to build a business application or even start to build their own game. The beauty of programming is that you don't need encyclopedic knowledge of a Computer language to make a application or software solution, but the logic and the techniques you apply are the key. Programming is almost like a puzzle. Anyone can solve one over time, but what is the quickest way to do it? This blog focuses on this software orientated side of programming, and hopefully after reading this, you will feel more comfortable in choosing a language and starting to write some basic programs yourself.
What makes a good programmer?
A good programmer is usually distinguished by his or her ability in logical thinking. Despite what some people think, Maths is not largely involved until someone decides to delve into fields like Artificial Intelligence, or 3D programming. Even in these cases, the methods applied relate to formulae that have already been found out and provided for us. So, don't let this put you off. However, if you seriously want to make programming a career, patience is essential. There will at some point come a time, where theres a problem with your work, or you are simpy unsure how to implement. Problems like these that arise like this can be very frustrating at times, and can take many hours to solve. It will take persistence and some visualisation to see through these situations and debug your programs. Those who can visualise and seperate their programs into neat, logical and simple instructions are one step ahead into thinking like programmers.
What Computer Language should I write in?
There are so many languages to choose from now, it can be quite hard to conclude which language is best for you and your programs. Pascal/Delphi, Python and Visual Basic are what I believe to be some of the best beginner programming languages out there. Both Borland Pascal/Delphi and Visual basic come with good interfaces, and are packaged with the .NET framework for you to instantly make your own Windows applications. All of which are easy to get to know, Python in particular, and all of them having thriving online communities with the exception of Delphi. Pascal/Delphi has roots that go back as far as the 1980's, hence why there is a lack of online support. Although, I still think it is a logical language to start learning with, even if some dislike the syntax and structure it uses. I intend to bring back some of its delights with a small 10 step guide below into learning Delphi.
10 steps to understanding Delphi
I have decided to release a quick Delphi tutorial in different posts, over the course of a few days. Before you begin this guide though you will need to download and install a compiler. Unfortunately, in the process of writing this post I found out that Borland Delphi 2006 is no longer available for free download. Two good alternatives though can be found here and here.
Two very good sources on Delphi are Delphi.about.com and Delphibasics.co.uk if you choose to gather more in depth knowledge. I will also be posting some of my own projects in the future for people to try out for themselves.
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