While in 2023, everyone should have basic knowledge of Coding or even try to learn coding skills. Learning coding skills offers numerous benefits such as problem-solving skills, computational thinking, innovation, enhancing logical thinking, and much more.

Learning languages is not to become a programmer but also about developing your skills and problem-solving efficiency. Today, we will be discussing how long does it take to learn to code.

Coding also teaches you team building and teamwork. It can be fun as you can create websites, games, software, apps, and other digital products. Let’s begin a new adventure.

1. How Long Does It Take To Learn To Code?

Most people think that learning coding is a long time process. Yes, I do agree with them. Learning coding languages takes time but if you genuinely want to learn to code, you can grasp the concepts easily in a short period. It’s like if you love someone time fades away very fast same goes with the learning method if you love the process you will not notice how long it going to take.

To answer your question, on average it takes 3 to 6 months to learn to code and establish a solid foundation in that particular language. However, it also depends upon various factors such as your chosen field, programming language, how much time you can dedicate, and last but not least your dedication and discipline towards learning.

Starting your journey in web development requires learning HTML, CSS, and Javascript. HTML and CSS is not programming language but still they are used in styling and creating a web page. Learning web development is easier than any other development skills as basics had been taught in our elementary schools. Web development takes just 3 Months to master. After learning HTML, CSS, and JS, you can start learning frameworks such as NodeJS, Angular, and React which will further take 3 Months to master.

For software engineering jobs, you have to learn the languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python. Through these languages, you can start app development, machine learning, game development, and web 3.0 development. Mastering any of the above languages can take 6+ months. According to the survey, many coders choose Java to learn first instead of C and C++.

2. When To Start Coding?

Well, there is no written constitution about the right age or time you can start coding. You can start coding whenever you feel curious and motivated to learn. Coding can be pursued at any time of your life but when you grow your power of grasping knowledge decreases. So, it is advisable if you want to explore this field then start coding in your 20s.

You can even start coding from your elementary school as a side hustle. Kautilya Kataria, an Indian who lives in a tier-3 city is now the world’s youngest software developer at the age of 6. He also won the Guinness world record for becoming the youngest programmer or coder. Another great example is Masako Wakamiya who started learning programming language at the age of 60 after quitting a bank clerk job. She was also met and praised by Tim Cook (CEO of Apple).

Whether you are a child, a teenager, a young adult, or a retired person, you can start a new journey in the coding field.

3. Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s important to live with realistic expectations. Not thinking that you will learn code and then you will start finding bugs and start contributing to open source within a month. Programming language is not everyone’s cup of tea, you have to sincerely dedicate your precious hours and hours daily.

Similar to any other skill, coding takes time to develop. Spend practicing coding problems on platforms like leetcode, Hacker rank, Code Chef, etc. If you have completed 3 Months of coding, you can monetize your skill by applying to internships or by creating projects.

4. Choose The Right Programming Language

It’s important to choose a programming language that revolves around your goals. The market offers different coding languages but today I will be sharing the best one. Here are some best and trendy options:

4.1 Javascript

Javascript is the widely used programming language in today’s time. Web developers primarily use this language but you can also work in some other popular domains such as the backend, app development, and game development. Through this language, you can add a dynamic aspect and functionality to your websites.

Javascript boasts a wide variety of libraries and frameworks, including Angular, Vue, and React JS. You can run JS on any operating system matter it is Windows, Linux, or macOS. It has been noticed that JS is continuously evolving because of ECMAScript which makes it more popular among all the languages.

4.2 Java

Java is an object-oriented programming language. It means it supports abstraction, encapsulation, and polymorphism. This is not a new programming language. Java was developed by James Gosling in 1995 and later Java was bought by Oracle Corporation. Till then, many big MNCs are using this language to create their product and services.

Java is much more difficult to learn than Python and Javascript but sets a solid foundation and makes any other language easy to learn. You can use this language in enterprise applications, mobile development, data science, cloud-based applications, game development, etc.

4.3 Python

Python is the easiest among all the programming languages which is popular because of its versatility, simplicity, and readability. In 1991, Guido Van Rossum developed Python, and since then many computer programmers have been using this language. Python can run on any operating system without the need for downloading any third-party modification software.

Mainly, Computer programmers use Python in AI, game development, web scraping, and app development. Python’s simple syntax and easy-to-learn USP make it so much popular.

4.3 C++

C++ is another OOP (object-oriented programming) language that is mostly used after Javascript. Also, C++ code includes C language code and you can compile C programs in C++ compiler. This language is mainly used in software development as it comes with vast and strong STP (standard template library) and syntax.

C++ has been evolved over the years and now introducing new features like lambda expressions, threading, and smart pointers. If you are going into the web 3.0, cloud computing, and software engineering field, then go with this language.

So, these are some programming languages you should know about. If you have a grip on the above-mentioned languages, then you can easily apply for an internship or placement in MNCs or even you can start your career as a freelancer. You can also explore other coding languages like Ruby, C, Swift, Perl, Kotlin, PHP, and more.

5. How To Improve Coding Skills?

Now, you know which language aligns with your goal. It’s time to start learning and improving your coding skills. Follow the given steps to excel in your programming languages.

5.1 Choose the Perfect Platform

It’s a big question for beginners. Should I go for online courses or offline classes? My suggestion is to choose online coding courses as you will save your transportation time and also it’s easily accessible from any corner of the world.

You can buy online courses from Udemy and Skillshare. Both platforms have highly experienced coders who already work in companies like FANGM. Although In 2023, you can see online tutorials free of cost from Youtube. For reference, you can visit the YouTube channels Telusko and SuperSimpleDev.

Also, you can opt for Coding Bootcamp. Coding Bootcamp comes with many advantages such as less theory, practical implication, more projects, and peer group. Sometimes good coding boot camps do offer you placements and job offers too. The downside of coding boot camp is that It might be a bit expensive, and it may be challenging to manage while you are working.

5.2 Start With Theory

Start learning the theory of your chosen coding language. In the initial phase, you must have an ample amount of knowledge about variables, libraries, loops, functions, strings, and syntax. You have the option to buy the book or follow your tutor’s guidance, taking gradual steps to progress.

Also, interact with your fellow coders as they will help you in solving many doubts.

5.3 Building Projects

Once you’ve acquired a good amount of coding knowledge, it’s time to begin working on projects. You can clone apps like Facebook, Spotify, Instagram, or any other famous app. Always, choose the right project that aligns with your goals and can be written in your resume.

Building projects help you learn concepts more efficiently and enhance your problem-solving power. Here, you can experience what real-world coding looks like.

5.4 Don’t Quit & Dive Deeper

Well, this is the point where most coders stop coding or are not ready to learn new technologies. As software development is a highly competitive niche to stay relevant you have to learn new technologies.

Start learning Data Structures and algorithms (DSA), APIs, and database management to expand your knowledge further. Gain practical experience by considering contributions to open-source projects, attending coding boot camps, and seeking internships or entry-level positions.

5.5 Monetize Your Coding Skill

Believe me, you are in a position where you can apply for a job or internship and start earning money. According to me, you should apply to a startup instead of big MNCs or FANGM as a startup comes with growth opportunities in a very short period.

If you have a Computer science degree then you will extra edge over others but it doesn’t mean that one with no degree can’t get a job. Companies need a person who can code and submit their coding assignment on time.

6. Conclusion

You can learn coding from online resources at cheap rates. Start your coding journey and always monitor your progress. Never forget to create projects as it will give you practical knowledge more. So, whether you want to create a landing page or start a tech startup Coding is the thing that you will need for sure.

Programming languages such as Java, JS, and C are best for beginners. These languages will get you a high-package coding job and also enhance your problem-solving skills. If you are a front-end web developer, learning Javascript will enable you to become a full-stack web developer and live a worthy life.

For sure, there will be a lot of ups and downs while learning a programming language. You need to handle situations and keep moving forward. So, open your laptop and start coding.

That’s all on how long does it take to learn to code. 

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Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by Janhavi Ramesh Kowligi