The Best Path to Learning Coding: Books, Websites, and YouTube Channels

Whether you are a complete beginner to coding or a seasoned developer looking to expand your skills, the journey to becoming proficient in programming can be both exciting and challenging. This guide will help you choose the most effective resources for learning, whether through books, websites, or YouTube channels.

Choosing the Right Programming Language

When starting out, many people wonder if they should choose a specific programming language. While the choice can seem overwhelming at first, the key is to select a language that will provide a solid foundation for your future learning. Two popular choices are Python and C.

Why Python and C?

Python: It's often recommended as a first language due to its simplicity and readability. Python is used across a wide range of industries and applications, making it a valuable skill to have. It's an excellent choice if you want to build a flexible skill set or get into data science and machine learning.

C: For those interested in game development or embedded systems, C is a great choice. It is a low-level language that offers more control over hardware and system resources, which can be beneficial for certain types of projects. However, as your friend suggests, C can be quite challenging for beginners due to its complexity and lack of high-level abstractions.

Learning Without Lobbies: Books and Online Resources

While the internet is full of resources, from YouTube tutorials to online courses, books have a unique quality. They offer a structured and comprehensive approach that can be very helpful for beginners. Here are some recommendations:

Books

KC Programming Book: This book is step-by-step and excellent for beginners, covering all concepts in detail with practical examples in C. Python/C Language Books: There are many books available that cover both Python and C, providing a comprehensive understanding of both languages. C Book: For a book specifically focused on C, look for titles that cover at least C11, ensuring you have the latest information and best practices.

Websites

Several websites offer excellent courses and tutorials that can help you learn at your own pace. Here are a few recommended websites:

Udemy: Offers a variety of courses on Python and C, with hands-on projects to enhance your learning experience. SoloLearn: An app and website with interactive coding exercises, suitable for beginners. Coursera: Provides free and paid courses from top universities on Python and C. DataCamp: Focuses on practical applications in data science and analytics, with courses on Python.

YouTube Channels

YouTube is a goldmine of learning resources, with many channels catering to beginners and more experienced developers alike. Here are a few prominent channels:

TheNewBoston: A popular channel with a wide range of tutorials, including Python and C.

CS50: Developed by Harvard University, CS50 provides comprehensive introductions to computer science and web development in C and Python.

Traversy Media: Offers a mix of video tutorials, series, and providers from Udemy and Coursera on a range of programming languages.

Continuous Practice and Improvement

Once you've chosen your programming language and started learning, it's crucial to practice consistently. Joining coding platforms and solving problems can significantly enhance your skills and confidence. Here are some popular platforms:

HackerRank: Offers coding challenges and projects to improve problem-solving skills. CodeChef: A platform for competitive programming with a range of challenges to engage you. Guvi Quiz: Ideal for beginners, providing practice questions and quizzes to enhance your knowledge. LeetCode: Known for its problem-solving challenges with solutions and discussions.

Conclusion

Learning coding is a journey that requires patience, practice, and dedication. Whether you start with Python or C, choose the right resources, and stay consistent with your practice. With the right approach and tools, you can become an excellent programmer. Happy coding!