I’m New to Programming – Where Should I Begin?

I'm more of a hobbyist than a pro, but I find Python to be pretty accessible as a beginner. Books like 'Automate the Boring Stuff' and 'Python Crash Course' could be beneficial. They helped me transition to learning C as well! Just take your time and don’t rush it. Plus, being somewhat familiar with Linux can be an advantage.

Ask yourself what made you think you’d enjoy programming in the first place? Are you more inclined towards software development or something else? Also, keep in mind the job market's ups and downs. It's crucial to know you're in it for the right reasons, not just the salary. That said, there are lots of resources and communities out there to support your learning.

Look into free self-paced courses like Stanford's Code In Place. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera offer great material, often free via Public Library access as well. You could also try beginning with Programiz or SoloLearn for introductory courses. Starting small helps you figure out if you genuinely like it!

Before diving in, I suggest thinking about what specifically interests you in programming. Do you have any projects or ideas in mind? Breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable steps can make it less overwhelming and help you stay focused.

You might want to check out CS50, which is Harvard's intro to computer science course, and it's free! It’s a fantastic way to start. Additionally, The Odin Project is a great resource focused on web development, covering fundamental programming skills. Just remember, it’s going to be a challenge at first. You’ll hit a steep learning curve, but stick with it! It’ll eventually make sense to you.