Choosing the right career path can be a tricky business, but if you have a thirst for all things technical and enjoy computers and electronics, becoming a computer programmer could be the perfect vocation for you.
Not only is this an exciting career route that requires skill and logic, but it can also be incredibly lucrative the further up the ladder you go – with the average salary of a UK programmer reaching almost £60,000 per year.
If you’d like to know a little more about what it takes to become a computer programmer, here are a few top tips to consider.
What Is A Computer Programmer?
A computer programmer writes and tests the code required that allows computer applications and software to function properly. Simply put, it turns the programs and software created by developers into a set of instructions that a PC can follow. All websites function via set code – changing the code can alter the appearance and performance of a website.
Trial Your Interest
If you want to be sure that programming is for you before delving into it as your chosen career route, you could invest in home programming tools such as Raspberry Pi kits, or Arduino kits. These electronic components are a great way for you to absorb new knowledge and relevant skills related to the world of computer programming.
What Different Languages Should You Learn?
When it comes to programming you need to understand that there are different types of code and different languages used for each one. There are dozens of programming languages out there, but here are the top 3 ones you’ll need to know:
- Python – Python is a global coding language great coding language for new coders because its readability and use of the English language make it easy to follow. Python is often used in artificial intelligence and financial services, alongside social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest.
- JavaScript – this language is widely used across interactive websites. JavaScript has the ability to produce web content on the server before a page is sent to the browser, which can be used to build games and communication applications that run directly in the browser.
- HTML – Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is the code used to structure the content on a web page. This includes any design concepts such as using code to implement elements such as tables or photos on a page. HTML is also responsible for formatting text across a website – from structuring paragraphs to listing bulleted points and general positioning of where text is located on a page.
