How Can I Start Learning Programming from Scratch?

You don’t need permission to learn! A lot of folks recommend CS50 because it’s great for beginners. But if you're not feeling it, that's okay! Choose something that interests you like game development or web design. A simple project like making a basic game (think snake or asteroids) can give you visual feedback and keep you engaged. Python is a good language to start with because it’s easy to grasp, but don’t stress too much—start with the basics of programming first, and then pick projects that excite you.

The idea of picking a project is solid, but you do want a foundation first. CS50 is tailored for beginners and might actually help you, contrary to what you think. If it feels overwhelming, try some alternative courses like Python Programming 2025 or Free Code Camp. Remember, climbing a mountain starts with small steps. Focus just on what you can learn today rather than everything at once.

The feeling of being overwhelmed is totally normal! Start by choosing a programming language and learn enough to be comfortable with it. You don’t need to know everything out there. Just focus on gradual learning—pick what interests you and take it step by step. W3Schools is a great free resource if you're interested in web design. Remember, age is just a number; it’s never too late to learn!

Started learning to code at 45 with my son's help, and it was all about picking projects that were fun. Recreating classic games gave me a sense of achievement and kept me motivated. Before diving into projects, do some basic research on programming languages like Python, Lua, or JavaScript that might suit you. The fundamentals are key, and there are plenty of free resources out there to help you get started.