I'm curious if there's a formal technical distinction between the terms "computer programming" and "coding" in the field of computer science. Do they mean the same thing, or is there a subtle difference I should be aware of? I want to use the right terminology when discussing these concepts in formal contexts to avoid any misinterpretation.
3 Answers
There are folks out there who see "coding" and "programming" as interchangeable, but I think programming is broader. With programming, you can even use no-code tools to create applications. Just remember, context matters for how you use these terms!
"Coding" tends to be a more casual term and can mean different things to different folks. On the other hand, "computer programming" has a stricter definition, although even that can vary. For instance, a lot of computer science focuses on theoretical concepts rather than just writing code. When in doubt, stick with "programming" in formal discussions.
Honestly, I see them as pretty much the same in most situations. But if you want to sound more formal, use "programming." Some say programming involves more design and planning, while coding is just the act of writing code. But really, it’s all a matter of context!
That makes sense! I always thought programming has to involve actual coding, but I see what you're saying with those no-code solutions.