The 12 Best Programming Languages to Learn in 2022

If you’re looking for a high-paying job that lets you work from anywhere you like, coding or programming might be perfect careers for you. But with so many programming languages to choose from, which one should you learn first?

What Is a Programming Language?

A programming language is the tool for writing the instructions that tell a computer what to do. These languages let coders translate a programmer’s directions into a form that computers can understand. A programming language has four major parts:

• Variables: As in mathematics, a variable represents a piece of data. Coders and programmers define their variables to recall specific information.
• Syntax: In programming, syntax is the order of words and symbols that create an understandable expression.
• Semantics: A programming language’s semantics define the effect of a command or function.
• Statements: A statement is the sequence a coder enters to give the computer an instruction.

12 Best Programming Languages to Learn

The best programming languages are ones in high demand by employers and relatively easy to learn. While there’s no such thing as an “easy” programming language, some languages are more user-friendly than others.

Here are 12 of the best programming languages to learn in 2022:

1. Java

Java is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, used for everything from developing Android apps to creating the back-end systems to deliver data. If you want your first programming language to come with a large community and plenty of online resources, Java is a great choice.

The best thing about learning Java is that you can use it for both front-end and back-end development. For example, a Java developer working on a website can create a database for the back-end or add interactivity for the users on the front-end. Additionally, Java is also one of the easiest languages to learn, as its syntax is similar to English.

2. Javascript

Javascript is another popular language for front-end web development. Learning Javascript will give you the skills you need to start building websites or web applications,

You can use Javascript to create interactive web pages and mobile applications. People looking to create apps for smartphones and tablets should learning Javascript, as it’s an integral language for these use cases.

Javascript is relatively easy to learn, and there are many online resources to help you get started.

3. Python

Another language is Python. It’s a versatile language helpful for everything from web development to scientific computing. If you’re looking to learn a language that offers plenty of application options, Python is a great choice.

4. Go

Google established Go in 2009 as an open-source project designed for high-performance systems. Like Python, Go is a versatile language that you can use for a variety of purposes. It’s also easy to learn, with a syntax similar to English.

If you’re looking for a language that is growing in popularity and has the backing of a major tech company, Go is worth considering.

5. Kotlin

Kotlin is an open-source language that was created to address some of Java’s drawbacks. You can use this language for both Android and back-end development.

Kotlin is worth checking out if you want to learn an alternative to Java that is growing in popularity,

6. PHP

PHP is a popular language for server-side web development. If you’re interested in building dynamic websites or web applications, learning PHP will give you the skills you need to get started.

7. Swift

Apple designed Swift as a safe and fast way to develop iOS and macOS apps. If you’re interested in creating native apps for Apple’s platforms, Swift is the language you need to learn.

8. C#

C# is a Microsoft language that, like Java and Javascript, stems from the C family of programming languages. It’s easy to learn for beginners who want to develop Windows applications.

If you’re interested in learning a language that will give you the ability to develop for Windows, you should consider C#.

9. C and C++

C and C++ are two of the most popular languages for low-level systems programming. For instance, if you’re interested in developing operating systems or embedded systems, learning C or C++ will give you the skills you need to get started.

10. Ruby

Ruby is a versatile language that you can use for everything from web development to data science. If you’re looking for an easy-to-learn language with a large community, Ruby is a great choice.

11. R

R is an important language for statistical computing. If you enjoy working with data or doing any kind of data analysis, learning R will give you critical skills to boost your marketability.

12. Matlab

Matlab is a language used for scientific computing. If you’re looking for a language that lets you work with data or do any kind of numerical analysis, Matlab is a strong option.

Where to Learn Programming Languages

If you’re just starting out, Codecademy offers free online courses for all of the languages on this list. For more experienced programmers, Udemy and Coursera offer online courses that range from beginner to advanced.

Suppose you’re looking for an immersive experience. In that case, bootcamps like Flatiron School and App Academy offer in-person courses to teach you everything you need to know to learn your chosen language.

Pick up a New Skill and See Where It Takes You!

Learning a new programming language can open up a world of possibilities. Choose one of the best programming languages to learn listed above. Select one that interests you so you can apply new skills at work or in hobby projects. With dedication, you’ll learn the basics of programming and be on your way to becoming a proficient programmer!