What Programming Language Should You Learn for 2022?

Learning

C
Python
JavaScript

So you’re looking to get started in Computer Science… but not sure where to start, particularly when it comes to learning a new programming language. A Computer Science course provides an excellent foundation for programmers, helping you grasp those basic ideas. Read: 10 Surprising Stats About Computer Science.

What is a programming language?

To break it down, a programming language is used by the programmer to create a series of symbols that act as a “bridge” that allows us humans to communicate our thoughts into instructions that computers can understand.

Given that the computer processes data and instructions using machine code called binary, it is difficult for ordinary people, like you and I, to understand. Therefore the programming language comes into play to allow programmers to write programs. Read: Beginner’s Guide: What is Computer Science?‍

With over 700 programming languages to date, it can be overwhelming. So, to make your life easier, we’ve asked the CS101 experts to make their call on what programming learning should you learn for 2022:

#1 C

C is a general-purpose programming language that is designed to work efficiently on games, graphics, and enterprise applications. It has many benefits including: the ability to be extendable, high speed and efficiency as well as having inbuilt functions and operators.

Our talented CS101 Computer Scientist, Jessica Rahman comments: “I think it can be considered a timeless programming language and it would be relevant for any computer science related career. It is a mid-level language, meaning it gives you enough knowledge on the machine on the low level as well as gives you the flexibility of using standard libraries and functions. I think grasping different computing concepts is best to do in C, then it is relatively easier to use the skills in other programming languages as well.”

Read more about Jessica: Life@CS101: Get to Know Computer Scientist Jessica Rahman

#2 Python

Without a doubt, Python is trending and is one of the most popular languages in programming. So, it makes perfect sense to learn this language. It is one of the most lucrative languages, with companies like Facebook, Spotify and Netflix utilising its features, including: the ease of learning and coding, GUI support and extensive libraries and frameworks to support the applications.

Our very own CS101 Course Facilitator, Hannah Beder shares her insights: “If you're interested in data analysis and visualisation, Python may be the way to go.”

She continues, “...it is aligning your choice of language with how you like learning, because success along the way is what motivates you. Once you've got your first language under your belt, picking up another one won't be as challenging as your conceptual understanding can now be relied on.”

Read more about Hannah: Life@CS101: Get to Know Course Facilitator Hannah Beder

#3 JavaScript

Last but not least, JavaScript is another popular programming language you can potentially delve into for 2022. According to W3Techs, 97.9% of all websites have JavaScript used as client-side programming language. Some features of using this programming language include: ease of learning, high in-demand and sought after within the industry and a well-organised codebase that can assist with productivity and readability.

Read: 4 Go-To Apps to Get Started In Computer Science [Infographic]