The Best Programming Languages for Beginners: Python, R, and SQL

If you are starting your journey into programming, you might be overwhelmed by the plethora of programming languages available. This article will help you choose the best language to start with by discussing the benefits of learning Python, R, and SQL. We will also address the question of which language to start with, given your current knowledge.

Why Learn Programming First?

Before diving into specific languages, it is crucial to learn the fundamentals of programming. Learning how to program is the most challenging part and it requires a focus on the right first language. A good first programming language can make learning subsequent languages easier and more enjoyable. In the world of programming, every person has their favorite language, but my recommendation is to start with a language that excels in teaching the fundamentals.

The Optimal First Programming Language: Miranda

While Python is often recommended for beginners, I believe that the best first programming language to learn is Miranda. Miranda is a pure functional programming (FP) language that has been around for over 30 years and is almost obsolete, yet it remains a powerful tool for learning the core principles of programming. Here are the reasons why Miranda is the ideal choice:

Easy Transition to Other Paradigms: Learning to program in Miranda will make it easier to transition to other paradigms, such as object-oriented programming (OOP). Miranda’s high-level abstraction focuses on program logic, allowing beginners to grasp the fundamental concepts of programming without being bogged down by lower-level details. This is akin to learning to drive a car without worrying about under-the-hood mechanics, which makes it easier to become a professional driver. Elegant Thinking: Miranda teaches you elegant ways of thinking about programming. Its concise and expressive syntax encourages clear and logical thinking, which are crucial skills for any programmer. Once you learn to think functionally, you will find it easy to apply these principles to other languages. Accessibility: Miranda is a free language and remains accessible in 2024, allowing beginners to install and start using it on any system. This ease of access and the fact that it’s over 30 years old but still relevant make it a solid choice for beginners.

Transitioning to Other FP Languages

Once you have mastered the basics of Miranda, you can move on to learning Haskell. Haskell is a more advanced and powerful functional programming language that builds on the concepts you have learned in Miranda. Here’s why you should consider learning Haskell next:

Familiarity: Since you have already learned the fundamentals of functional programming in Miranda, transitioning to Haskell will be smoother. The structures and concepts in Haskell are similar to those in Miranda, making the learning process faster and more efficient. Advanced Features: Haskell offers more advanced features and is more powerful than Miranda. It is a well-established language with a strong community and extensive resources, making it easier to find help and guidance. Ecosystem Growth: Since 2024, the Haskell ecosystem has grown significantly. There are more libraries, tools, and resources available, which can help you become an even more proficient programmer.

Python, R, and SQL: Practical Applications

In addition to Miranda and Haskell, it is essential to learn practical application-specific programming languages. Here are the benefits of learning Python, R, and SQL:

Python

Python is a versatile and beginner-friendly general-purpose programming language. It is widely used in web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and scientific computing. Its readability and simplicity make it an excellent choice for beginners. Python’s ease of use and vast standard library make it a go-to language for various tasks, from web scraping to building complex software systems.

R

R is primarily used for statistical analysis and data visualization. Given your slight knowledge of statistics, R is a logical choice. It provides a rich set of statistical and graphical techniques and is supported by a vibrant community of statisticians and data analysts. R is particularly useful for those who want to delve into statistical analysis and data visualization, making it an essential tool for data scientists and researchers.

SQL

SQL (Structured Query Language) is specifically designed for managing and querying databases. It is a valuable skill for anyone dealing with data storage and retrieval. Learning SQL can provide you with the ability to work with large datasets and perform complex queries. While it is not considered programming in the traditional sense, SQL is a specialized language that is critical for data professionals and analysts. You can build a career as a database specialist, focusing on data management and retrieval.

Conclusion

When starting your journey as a programmer, the choice of the first language is crucial. Miranda is the ideal language for beginners due to its functional paradigm, ease of learning, and the ability to quickly grasp core programming concepts. Once you have mastered Miranda, transitioning to Haskell or even Python, R, and SQL will be easier. Each of these languages serves a different purpose and adds a unique set of skills to your programming arsenal. By starting with Miranda and proceeding to Haskell, you will build a strong foundation and be well-equipped to tackle more complex programming challenges.