How to Start Learning to Program

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Decide what you would like to do with your programming knowledge.

   Do you want to learn how to create games, or is web development more your style?
2. 2

   Step 2: Start reading and find out what programming languages are used.

   For game making, it would be beneficial to learn one of the C languages.
   
   For web development, you should start with HTML and CSS and move on to whichever server-side language you require, such as Perl or PHP. , For example, if learning PHP, you will need to download and install a server such as Apache, as well as PHP itself.
   
   For a C language, you might have to buy a program, however there are good programs you can get for free to compile a C language. , Start by the manual for your program, and work your way through the examples.
   
   You might try some beginner tutorials. , Pick something simple.
   
   If you're learning how to program games, try an easy game such as a number guessing game. , You will probably find it difficult and have to reference the manual or tutorials quite often, but it's a start. , Eventually you will have enough of a grasp of the language and its syntax, as well as the "theory" of programming, that you can complete more difficult projects. , A good mentor will accelerate your learning process and help prevent you from making common mistakes.
3. 3

   Step 3: Do some more research and find out what you need to test it.

4. 4

   Step 4: Start reading.

5. 5

   Step 5: Decide what your first project will be.

6. 6

   Step 6: Start programming.

7. 7

   Step 7: Move on to a slightly more difficult project.

8. 8

   Step 8: Find a good mentor.

Detailed Guide

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