What is computer programming?

Computer programming is a way of giving computers instructions about what they should do next. These instructions are known as code, and computer programmers write code to solve problems or perform a task.

The end goal is to create something: that could mean anything from a web page, or a piece of software, or even just a pretty picture. That’s why computer programming is often described as a mix between art and science; it’s technical and analytical, yet creative at the same time.

Some of the most common languages include (we’re including the aforementioned HTML and CSS, despite the debate):

• HTML
• Javascript
• Python
• CSS
• Ruby
• PHP
• C++
• SQL

Some of these languages are easier and more desirable to learn than others, although that doesn’t make them any less useful. In fact, it may be more beneficial for your career to learn one of the “dreaded” computer programming languages, as you’ll be more in demand.

What is front-end and back-end computer programming?

Front-end development involves working with code that produces the elements that users can see and interact with; it’s all about how a website looks and feels.

Back-end web developers make sure the website works as it should do, and the code they write is normally invisible to users. Back-end web developers work with databases that store information such as customer details, and servers which are where databases (virtually) live.

Both front-end and back-end computer programming jobs are creative in their own ways, but front-end developers often need to have a visual eye so they can judge what will work best for site users.

Basic examples of front-end development include that pretty-looking font on your favorite web page, or that slider on the homepage of a news site, or even the dropdown menu where you can choose your preferred option. Everything from the color scheme to the layout to the positioning to the typography is a front-end developer’s responsibility.

The three main languages front-end developers need to know are:

• HTML
• Javascript
• CSS