I want to learn programming...HALP!

[linkgx1]

Okay, so I want to learn how to program Android/iOS apps. The main problem is I need to know the very basics of programming. I've already bought JAVA/Android books but the problem is that each of the books requires some sort of previous knowlege. I need something for complete beginners. Any tips?

[U4K61]

Most computer books on programming really assume very little in the way of computer skills other then the assumption you can turn on the computer, use a mouse and find your way around Windows. SAMS (some computer language) in 21days for me is quick way to pick up something new.

I gather if people are having problems with the book, there are trying to take in too much in too short a time. Start off simple, get the concept, test out the examples given on your own computer, and then use a bit of you own imagination and try out some stuff with what you know; then sit on things for a while before moving on.

[stevo4264]

Have you looked at http://math.hws.edu/javanotes/ not sure if it's what your after but
it is available for a free download, so if it's not what you want you won't be out of pocket.

[linkgx1]

Originally Posted by stevo4264

Have you looked at http://math.hws.edu/javanotes/ not sure if it's what your after but
it is available for a free download, so if it's not what you want you won't be out of pocket.

Will look into. Thanks. Come to think of it I think MIT has some stuff too...

[linkgx1]

Originally Posted by Craig Ruchman

Most computer books on programming really assume very little in the way of computer skills other then the assumption you can turn on the computer, use a mouse and find your way around Windows. SAMS (some computer language) in 21days for me is quick way to pick up something new.

I gather if people are having problems with the book, there are trying to take in too much in too short a time. Start off simple, get the concept, test out the examples given on your own computer, and then use a bit of you own imagination and try out some stuff with what you know; then sit on things for a while before moving on.

I saw this at B&N but it was way overpriced. I'll try Amazon.

[BluLobsta]

Well, you may have a tall order ahead of you if you don't enjoy programming and actually have an aptitude for it in the first place. You may be setting yourself up for some major frustration unless you approach it properly. Writing a complex, useful application in Java requires quite a bit of talent and experience. Not only are you dealing with a programming language, but you are dealing with an object-oriented language at that, which can be very abstract for a novice. It's really not that easy to be honest. I was a TA for undergrad Java courses when I was in grad school, so from my perspective I would suggest saving your money and taking a few night courses in Java from a local college and getting the benefit of being taught and learning from the professionals, at least initially. If not, then go to the people who created it in the first place

The Java Tutorials

Students usually use the Eclipse IDE so start by downloading it and writing you first "Hello World!" program, for instance, which we all do as programming virgins

Eclipse

Learn the really simple stuff at first such as operators, statements, loops, variables, etc. and then move into object orientation with classes, inheritance, polymorphism, etc. See if you enjoy it first, though. Just because something seems really cool doesn't necessarily make it easy or straightforward Like anything, it requires very hard work and dedication to become successful...