What Is Coding? (No, Seriously, What Is It?)

Everything you need to know about the digital language.

This post is presented in partnership with BYJU’S FutureSchool.

Almost every piece of tech that you use on a daily basis has been created using coding. Whether you’re making a phone call, Googling something or playing a video game, coding has an important part in making that possible.

The problem is most of us couldn’t even tell what coding is other than a bunch of numbers and letters.

Luckily, with help from BYJU’S FutureSchool, we’ve got the lowdown on everything you need know about coding.

What is coding?

This is a complex question, but we’re gonna do our best to simplify it for you.

A computer is useless unless it's given instructions to follow to complete a task. Coding means writing out the step-by-step instructions to tell the computer what to do.

When all of these instructions come together in a set, you’ve got yourself a computer program like Microsoft Word or Photoshop.

Still with us?

I think so. But how does coding work?

In its simplest form, a person will write out their code in a plain text editor like Notepad. Now it’s time to test the program and see if it runs (that’s just tech lingo to see if it works).

Running the program and getting it to perform commands will vary between code languages. Generally, most programs are compiled into or converted into a binary code, which a computer can understand and run directly. Yes, we are talking about those ones and zeros.

Still following? Good!

Wait, there are different code languages?

Yep. There are different languages ‘cos they’re used for different purposes. Programming languages are not only for web development and developing desktop software, they are for a wide range of things. These include working on data, building games, engineering and so much more.

If we didn’t have these various code languages, programmers would be manually writing out binary code of ones and zeros which would take forever. Languages are a simplified way of writing code that is then translated into binary code to create a program.

Why should I learn it?

As the world continues to become more digital, coding is quickly becoming the language of the future with primary schools even teaching kids how to code.

There are many reasons you should learn to code. For starters, it’s a great profession to consider if you love computing, with the field growing rapidly every year (not to mention the competitive salary).

If you want to flex your creative muscles, then coding can help with that too. You can create websites, apps, video games. Let your imagination run wild.

Also, if you’re just really into all things computers and tech, then coding is a great way to understand the technology you’re using every day.

Where do I start?

Finding out where to start is always the hardest part. But don’t worry, if you’re keen to learn how to code, we know just the place to begin.

BYJU’S FutureSchool has an awesome range of coding classes. For anyone starting out, they have their Introduction to Coding class that dives deep into the world of video games, showing you exactly how they’re made. Come the end of the course, you’ll have designed your own game from scratch.

If you’re looking for something more advanced, you can try out their App Developer Certificate curriculum. This course will help you create your own app, exploring how to make it function well while also look easy on the eye. Plus, they’ll show you how to publish it on the AppStore and Google Play Store too.

To find out more about coding and sign up for a FREE trial class, check out BYJU’S FutureSchool class options here and choose the right one for you.

Header Image: Alexandru Acea via Unsplash