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Best platforms to learn programming from scratch and become a developer

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The technology market is constantly evolving, and one of the most promising careers is that of a developer.

However, many beginners feel lost when trying to learn programming, especially because they don't know where to start.

The good news is that with the advent of the internet, there are a huge amount of online resources and platforms that make learning to code more accessible and efficient than ever before.

In this article, we will explore the best platforms to learn programming from scratch and become a developer, as well as how to choose the best option for your learning profile.

Why learn programming?

Before talking about the platforms, it is important to understand the relevance of learning programming nowadays.

With the increasing digitalization of all sectors, programming skills are increasingly in demand.

Technology professionals are sought after by companies in various segments, and the development of software, applications and digital solutions is one of the most profitable areas.

Furthermore, learning to program is not just a useful skill for those who want to pursue a career in IT.

Programming develops logical reasoning, problem-solving and creativity, skills that are valuable in any profession.

How to choose the best platform to study programming?

Choosing the right platform to learn programming can be a daunting task as there are so many options available.

Below, we will discuss the main criteria to consider when choosing where to study:

  1. Personal Goals: The first step is to identify your goals. Do you want to learn programming to change careers, build a personal project, or simply expand your knowledge? Depending on your answer, you can choose platforms that are more focused on fundamentals or on specific areas, such as web development, mobile applications, or artificial intelligence.
  2. Teaching Method: Each platform has a different approach to teaching. Some are video-based, others are interactive exercises. Some offer community support, while others have tutors available to answer questions. Choose a platform that suits your learning style.
  3. Cost: While there are top-notch free options, some platforms offer exclusive features for a fee. It’s important to balance the cost with the value you’ll get, and also check to see if the platform offers any kind of guarantee or trial period.

Best platforms to learn programming from scratch

Now that we’ve discussed how to choose the right platform, let’s take a look at some of the best options for those who want to learn programming from scratch and become a competent developer.

1. freeCodeCamp

O freeCodeCamp is a completely free platform that offers complete courses in various areas of programming.

Including web development, algorithms and data structures, APIs and microservices, among others.

What makes freeCodeCamp a great choice for beginners is its hands-on approach: you learn to code by solving coding challenges and creating real-world projects, which is crucial for making your learning stick.

freeCodeCamp Highlights:

freeCodeCamp is ideal for those who like to learn by doing.

The platform offers a practical and objective way to learn programming, with the advantage of being completely accessible to everyone, free of charge.

2. Codecademy

A Codecademy is one of the best-known platforms for those who want to learn programming from scratch.

It offers interactive courses covering a variety of programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, Ruby, and HTML/CSS.

In addition to courses focused on web development, data science and artificial intelligence.

Codecademy's unique feature is its teaching method based on constant practice, where students write code directly on the platform and receive immediate feedback.

Codecademy also offers free and paid plans, with the Pro plan being the most advanced, with additional features like projects, quizzes, and mentor support.

Codecademy is perfect for anyone who wants to start from scratch and have an immersive experience with programming, especially for those looking to learn quickly.

3. Udemy

A Udemy is one of the largest online course platforms in the world, offering a wide range of courses, including programming.

What makes Udemy so popular is its variety of courses in various languages and fields, such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, and more.

The platform allows you to learn at your own pace, with video lessons and supplementary materials.

While Udemy isn't free, it offers affordable prices and frequently runs promotions with significant discounts.

Additionally, the platform allows you to have lifetime access to the course, which means you can study at your own pace and review the content whenever necessary.

If you prefer to learn from videos and supplementary materials, Udemy is an excellent choice, offering quality courses that cover everything from basic concepts to advanced topics.

4. Coursera

O Coursera is an online learning platform that offers courses from renowned universities and companies such as Stanford, Google, IBM, and more.

Coursera's programming courses are developed by universities and therefore have a more academic level, with depth and rigor.

The platform offers both free and paid courses, with the possibility of obtaining certificates recognized by the market.

One of the great advantages of Coursera is that, in addition to learning programming, you also have the opportunity to learn about computer theory.

Data structures and other fundamental areas to become a complete developer.

If you want a more academic approach and want to learn from instructors from prestigious universities, Coursera is an excellent option.

It is ideal for those who want to build a solid foundation of technical knowledge.

5. Khan Academy

A Khan Academy is a free educational platform that offers a wide range of courses, including programming and computer science.

While best known for its math courses, Khan Academy also offers programming tutorials in JavaScript and SQL, as well as computer graphics resources.

The courses are video-based, and the platform offers interactive exercises that allow students to write code directly within the Khan Academy interface.

The content is ideal for beginners who are taking their first steps in programming.

For those looking for a simple and accessible introduction to programming, Khan Academy is an excellent option.

The platform is particularly useful for those who are just starting to learn the basics of programming and want to explore the world of computer graphics.

How to Become a Successful Developer

Learning programming from scratch is a great first step, but becoming a successful developer requires more than just learning the syntax of different languages. Some tips for achieving success in your developer career include:

Questions and answers about learning programming

1. What is the best programming language to start from scratch?

For beginners, languages like Python, JavaScript, and Ruby are highly recommended. They are well documented, have simple syntax, and are widely used in the job market.

2. Do I need a powerful computer to learn programming?

You don't need a very powerful computer to learn programming. With a basic computer, you can learn the most popular languages and start programming without any problems.

3. How many hours per week should I study to learn programming?

This depends on your learning pace, but an average of 10 to 15 hours per week is ideal for anyone who wants to learn programming consistently and effectively.

Curiosities about programming

  1. Programming is a problem-solving skill: Programming is not just about writing code, it's about understanding problems and finding creative solutions.
  2. The first programmers were women: Ada Lovelace and other pioneers played essential roles in early programming.
  3. Programming is a useful skill in many areas: In addition to technology, programming is useful in areas such as data science, business analytics, and process automation.

In short, studying programming is an exciting and challenging journey.

With the right platforms and a mindset of constant practice, anyone can become a successful developer, even starting from scratch.