[LUGSB] What do you think would be a good "first programming language", and why?

[Vinay Pai]

I would strongly recommend C. Many modern languages derive their syntax
from C, so you'll be learning a lot more than just one language.

That said, I think its more important that you learn ONE language very
well, whatever that language may be. Ideas regarding how to structure
programs, how to accomplish common tasks etc. are far more important than
learning the syntax of a language. Those things only really come with
experience. Once you have those things straight you ought to be able to
pick up a book or tutorial and learn any new language in a matter of days
or weeks.

Vinay


On Wed, 10 Dec 2003, Anwar A Ruff wrote:

>
> Hello guys,
>
> I briefly brought up during the last meeting, a question of, what would
> be a "good" first programming language to learn? Yes, I know, this is
> subject to your opinion, but as a novice good advice is scarce -- with
> the exception of LILUG of-course. Any and all suggestions are greatly
> appreciated. 
>
> Listed below is my previous programming experience: 
>
> -- very little shell scripting (bash)
> -- sadly, VB.Net (I can hack a small program)
>      + specifically, I have an understanding of subroutines, functions,
> and loops (if, while, case)
>
>
>  
>
> Thanks,
> Anwar
>
>
>