I recently started using Linux and it sparked an interest in programming. I have several hobby projects in mind, but I only have time to focus on one language for now. My ideas include simple TUI applications such as a tide calendar or weather comparison tool, a screenless note-taking device built with a small USB keyboard and single-board computer, a bike-movement detector that sends an email alert, a GPS-based nature information device using iNaturalist data, scripts for automating repetitive tasks, and eventually a simple text-based game. I'm considering Rust because it seems useful for embedded devices, terminal interfaces, and games. C also interests me because it could teach valuable computer science and systems concepts, though I'm unsure how practical it is for interface-heavy projects. Python seems suitable for many of these ideas, but I'm wondering whether it would provide enough foundational knowledge. Which language would be the best starting point?
4 Answers
C would be a great learning choice if understanding how computers work is one of your main goals. You can build terminal applications with libraries such as ncurses, and you’ll learn about memory, pointers, compilation, and operating-system interfaces. It may take longer to finish projects than Python, but the fundamentals transfer well to other languages.
Rust can eventually cover many of these areas, especially command-line tools, embedded programming, and performance-sensitive applications. However, it has a steeper learning curve, so it may be frustrating as a first language if your immediate goal is to make several small projects. Starting with Python or C and studying Rust afterward is a reasonable path.
Python is probably the most practical first choice for this collection of projects. It works well for API requests, email notifications, automation, GPS and web data, single-board computers, and terminal applications. Libraries such as Textual, gpiozero, and Requests can help you get useful projects running quickly. You can always learn C or Rust later when you want deeper systems knowledge or more control over hardware.
There isn’t one language that is best for every project here. Pick the project you’re most excited to build, then choose the tools that make that project straightforward. For a first project, Python will usually reduce the amount of setup and low-level debugging, which makes it easier to stay focused on learning programming.
Related Questions
How To: Running Codex CLI on Windows with Azure OpenAI
Set Wordpress Featured Image Using Javascript
How To Fix PHP Random Being The Same
Why no WebP Support with Wordpress
Replace Wordpress Cron With Linux Cron
Customize Yoast Canonical URL Programmatically