Top 7 Best Programming Languages to Learn
In a world constantly shifting towards the digital, more and more power is attributed to people at the core of this new era. Today one of the best-paying jobs one could find has something to do with programming.
Whether you want to work for the biggest game developers or even become one yourself.
Learning a programming language will present someone with the most significant opportunities in the digital space. From the most useful and challenging to the most straightforward and welcoming options, this list will help you make a healthy decision about which one you want to pursue.
Below, we dive into the following programming languages, offering a basic understanding of each, the advantages and hardships you may have to face while taking on learning one.
Ruby
JavaScript
Python
Java
C++
C#
Go
Ruby
A free and open-source programming language so that you can immediately begin to educate yourself in it. It is also a cross-platform programming language, meaning you may use it regardless of whether your computer runs on Windows, Mac OS or Linux.
The "syntax" of a programming language is the main source of challenges beginners face when they are first beginning to learn how to program. There are a lot of different programming languages, and each of them uses its own set of unique keywords, symbols and letters, which you have to learn and remember.
Because the syntax of Ruby is meant to be similar to that of the English language, you won't have to devote as much time learning the syntax in order to write code using Ruby.
This is a functional scripting language developers use to automate tasks that are usually done manually, basic scripts can be produced rapidly in order to save time and make work more efficient. This is made possible by the fact that basic scripting is both concise and straightforward to write.
Key Applications: Web Development, Prototyping, and Automation.
Why Learn Ruby?: Ruby powers major platforms like Shopify and GitHub. Its ease of use and supportive community make it a great choice for startups and solo developers.
Popular Frameworks: Ruby on Rails, Sinatra.
Career Opportunities: Ruby developers are in demand for web development, earning average salaries of $90,000 to $130,000 annually (Source: Glassdoor, 2024).
JavaScript
Most commonly used for the construction of dynamic and interactive web pages. It is frequently used in conjunction with HTML and CSS to construct front-end apps. If you can click on an element on a webpage, drag it around, or move it, there's a good chance that JavaScript was involved in its creation.
In fact, more than 98% of websites have their client-facing functionality powered by JavaScript. If you're interested in developing websites, understanding JavaScript is absolutely necessary.
JavaScript is a highly flexible programming language used for various tasks in addition to the production of front-end applications. Some of these tasks include server-side programming using Node.js, developing mobile apps and games while also automating routine operations.
Because this is one of the most popular programming languages, it is easy to find valuable resources for learning it. Additionally, the JavaScript community welcomes newcomers with open arms and a welcoming attitude.
Key Applications: Frontend and Backend Web Development, Mobile App Development, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), and Game Development.
Why Learn JavaScript?: As the web continues to dominate, JavaScript remains an essential skill for developers. It powers nearly 97% of websites globally.
Popular Frameworks: React, Angular, Vue.js, Node.js, Express.js, and Meteor.
Career Opportunities: JavaScript developers can work as full-stack developers, frontend engineers, or mobile app developers, earning average salaries of $110,000 annually (Source: Indeed, 2024).
Python
This free, open-source programming language may be used for various projects. It finds widespread application in different contexts, including building websites, scientific computing, artificial intelligence, data analysis, and more.
Python is likely the response you get if you inquire about the programming languages that will be the most useful in 2023. The user-friendliness of its syntax and the simplicity of its semantics have contributed to its widespread adoption. Python is widely considered one of the most straightforward programming languages for beginners, as is Ruby.
There are a lot of major Python communities online that are active and helpful. Finding high-quality lessons or assistance is easy when you get stuck on a Python project.
Learning Python can open many new avenues, such as data science, software engineering, and artificial intelligence.
Key Applications: Data Science, Machine Learning, Web Development, Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Scientific Computing, and FinTech.
Why Learn Python?: Python is in high demand across industries, and its robust ecosystem makes it a go-to language for both beginners and seasoned developers. Companies like Google, Netflix, and NASA rely heavily on Python.
Popular Frameworks: Django, Flask, TensorFlow, Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, and PyTorch.
Career Opportunities: Python developers are sought after for roles in AI, data analysis, backend development, and scientific research, with average salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 in the U.S. (Source: Glassdoor, 2024).
Java
The software industry relies heavily on Java, a programming language that has been around for a very long time. It is a programming language that may be used for various purposes, is object-oriented and can be utilised independently of the platform. (e.g., Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, etc.).
This is because of its WORA capability, which stands for write once, run anywhere. Java is well-known for its ability to support cross-platform functionality. At this time, there are three billion devices that are capable of running programs that were developed with Java.
This language is utilised extensively in constructing applications and websites while managing vast quantities of information being used in the backend of prominent websites like Twitter, Google, Amazon, and YouTube.
New Java frameworks have recently been developed, such as Hibernate and Spring. These frameworks are also gaining popularity among working people interested in learning programming languages.
Java is a programming language that is more challenging to learn than Python, yet, there is a significant need for professionals with expertise working in Java.
Key Applications: Enterprise Applications, Mobile Development, Backend Development, Cloud Computing, and Big Data.
Why Learn Java?: Its stability and compatibility make it a favorite for large-scale systems. Java is extensively used in banking systems, e-commerce platforms, and Android apps.
Popular Frameworks: Spring, Hibernate, Apache Struts, and JHipster.
Career Opportunities: Java developers are in demand for roles in enterprise solutions and Android development, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 annually (Source: Payscale, 2024).
C++
A programming language widely used in the industry is an improved version of the language C. In addition, C++'s flexibility makes it the most desirable programming language to study.
Developers can construct applications such as video games, graphics software, and web browsers that have exceptional performance thanks to the quick and powerful nature of the framework.
As a result of its unique combination of low and high-level language properties, it is ideally suited for system programming while also enabling abstraction for use in more limited endeavours.
Additionally, C++ is a multi-paradigm programming language, meaning that it supports object-oriented programming (OOP), generic programming, and imperative programming.
As a side note, learning C++ can be difficult for beginners because the syntax of this programming language is more complicated than the syntax of other languages.
Expertise in this language is required for numerous positions in the information technology industry, including software developers and programming architects. These individuals can access many available career opportunities because this is one of the most challenging programming languages to learn.
Key Applications: Game Development, High-Performance Computing, Operating Systems, and Embedded Systems.
Why Learn C++?: Known for its efficiency and control, C++ is essential for tasks where performance and hardware-level control are critical.
Popular Frameworks: Qt, Boost, Unreal Engine.
Career Opportunities: C++ developers are in demand in sectors like gaming, finance, and robotics, with salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 annually (Source: Dice, 2024).
C#
This is a computer language developed by Microsoft in the year 2000, operates on the .NET framework and works well for developing games and applications for desktop computers. According to survey findings, 34% of the most popular mobile games are developed using C#.
It is a language that has been designed well and is in high demand worldwide. Therefore, becoming proficient in C# is an excellent choice for a career path in 2025.
Key Applications: Game Development, Windows Applications, Web Development, and Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).
Why Learn C#?: Its versatility and integration with Unity make it a top choice for game developers. Additionally, it’s heavily used in enterprise software.
Popular Frameworks: .NET Core, Xamarin, Unity, and Blazor.
Career Opportunities: C# developers often work in game development, enterprise solutions, and AR/VR applications, with salaries ranging between $85,000 and $130,000 annually (Source: Salary.com, 2024).
Go (Golang)
Its straightforward, contemporary language and the familiarity of its syntax has contributed to its rise in popularity among numerous large IT organisations. Google, Uber, Twitch, and Dropbox are just some companies that use this programming language in their day-to-day operations. Data scientists are also increasingly adopting Go as a programming language because of its flexibility and performance.
Key Applications: Cloud Computing, DevOps, Microservices, Backend Development, and Containerization (e.g., Docker).
Why Learn Go?: Its performance and scalability make it ideal for modern software architectures. Go is widely used by tech giants like Google, Uber, and Dropbox.
Popular Frameworks: Gin, Echo, Beego, and Revel.
Career Opportunities: Go developers are sought after for roles in cloud engineering and backend development, with average salaries of $100,000 to $150,000 annually (Source: Dice, 2024).
Bottom line
So now you should consider where to start. But the key thing is to get started. Once you have a single language under your belt, adding a second and a third language becomes that much easier. You will know what you want to do in a particular situation and you will just need to translate that into your new language but the basic principles and theory will always remain.
This article is also very much aimed at manual test engineers who are looking to break into the test automation space. Our recommendation would be that you look at Ruby, Python and JavaScript for starters.
Remember, learning programming is a continuous journey. Start with one language, master its fundamentals, and branch out as needed. The tech landscape is vast, and with the right skills, the opportunities are endless.
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