[ale] Programming Question - Where to Start

[Joseph A Knapka]

+1 for Python. As a very experienced SW developer
in a bunch of different languages, I'd personally
rather write (and read) raw machine code than Perl.

<ducks behind asbestos-coated steel plate>

Python is designed for beginners to be able to pick
up easily, yet it's as powerful as any of the other
very-high-level languages. Of the dozen or so
general-purpose languages I know well, I like Python
best. Start at

<URL: http://www.python.org>

You might also have a look at Scheme:

<URL: http://www.teach-scheme.org>

-- Joe

Byron A Jeff wrote:
> 
> >
> > I am ready to admit that I need to acquire some basic programming skills,
> > and believe that Perl is probably the best place to start.
> 
> Probably not. Perl is a very eclectic language that pulls from a bunch of
> other Unix style languages (C, awk, sed, shell). So if you're not in the
> know about Perl's lineage, it can be very crypic and confusing.
> 
> >
> > I have done some very basic high-level 'programming', in the form of PAL
> > (Paradox App Lang) scripting a long time ago, and more recently some
> > Filemake Pro scripting, but in no way consider myself to be a programmer.  I
> > have peeked at some Perl scripts, and am mystified by what I see.
> 
> That's exactly the point I was trying to make about Perl.
> 
> >
> > So, my question is, where shouod I start?  Is there a good book for absolute
> > beginners, that won't assume that I know a bunch of stuff that I don't?
> > Should I take a class?  Both?  I was planning on finding a good book for
> > beginners, worky my way through that, then once I know enough to be
> > dangerous, see if I can find a class.
> 
> Take a look at Python. It's simple, straightforward, and highly structured.
> It's a good first language. And a powerful everyday language.
> 
> BAJ
> 
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