Advice for a Beginnner

[Krypto]

So i've desided to take the plunge into the big, scarry world of programming. I don't want to do a lot, but i would like to be at least familiar with some of the most common languages.

the problem is, i have no idea what languages are better suited for what types of use. Why would i use C instead of C++ for instance? What type of languages are best used for simple manipulation and alteration of the files on my computer? Where the hell do i start on any of this?

[Gooey]

If you're a complete beginner try VB. Once you are familiar with the basics step up to C++ / C# / Java. Essentially aim to go object orientated...

[Glowstick]

IMO you should directly start with C and then move to C++ if you need object oriented programming.

C/C++ just looks weird and difficult due all the weird signs you use, but overall it's still easy.

And moving from an easy everything-forgiving language like VB to C is a very hard step, esp if you got used to VB semantics.

[Prash]

Krypto, depends, really what kind off programming you want to do, lets say you want to make web programming forms etc. go for PHP. As for win32 application I suggest you VB or delphi, although I know feel VB is tatty and is sometime slow. If your going to programe in Unix Systems go for C.

[Krypto]

Ok, lets look at it this way, Since it will no doubt take me a great amount of time just to become solid in any one language, i should probably start with whatever is the most versitile language. I'd be creating small scripts and applications, so do i go with Delphi, C, C++ or VB?

[Gooey]

Tom, I say start with VB so that he can get used to the concepts of control loops, structure and all the other stuff _with_ a forgiving language, so that there is no need to worry about the complexities of C / C++. Straight into these would be too demanding. Give VB ( or if you like Delphi ) a chance for a month of so, then move to C++...

[Steelyguy]

I'd go with Delphi if I were you.

I started with VB, went to Delphi, and am staying with Delphi. You can do so much with Delphi and it is loads easier than C++.

You can download the free version of Delphi (Personnel Edition) from Borland.

I've met many VB programmers who have great respect for Delphi but I haven't met a single Delphi programmer who likes VB. That should say something (maybe that I should meet more people :) )