Where to start? Programming is confusing...

[cvic]

Right now there are two jobs open at a nearby Google location and though I already qualify for them both, I want to learn more so that at some point I can move up faster. Specifically, I need to learn programming... of any language, but at the very least Python.

I have a basic knowledge about linux and android, but want to learn about programming just to be a better candidate and hold more value in the company's eyes. Also going to learn about making web pages for a personal project of mine. I need to basically build a site where I can organize all my art for my portfolio, and also set up a gallery with a guided viewing function, where I can display my comics.

I also plan on creating an Android app in the future that incorporates the website's features and also has a built in store for buying physical copies or any other merch or art prints/posters etc

My questions I have are:

1 Does anyone else here actually work for Google and possibly have some good advice?

2 Where are the best source of info on programming and web development?

3 Where should I start with making an Android app?

 

[llatch]

1 Does anyone else here actually work for Google and possibly have some good advice?

2 Where are the best source of info on programming and web development?

3 Where should I start with making an Android app?

1. Only as a Dev.

2. The internet. Look here: https://www.udacity.com/courses

3. Start here: Android Development Forum - Basic4android
Tell em latch sent you!

 

[cvic]

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[llatch]

Excellent programming advice.

 

[mebrewsta]

Python is a fantastic language to start learning in.

Remember that "learning" a programming language (such as syntax, variable types, etc etc) is fairly easy, it's the logic that takes years - even decades - to master.

 

[llatch]

Python does rock. And if you have the logic down, it doesn't matter what language you use.

 

[JohnLaird]

My questions I have are:

1 Does anyone else here actually work for Google and possibly have some good advice?

2 Where are the best source of info on programming and web development?

3 Where should I start with making an Android app?

1. I do not work for Google so no to that question.

2. Kind of sad to say this...but Google search. Everything you need is on the internet. Even a lot of obscure old legacy crap is up there (like MFC for example). Books are a luxury...the good ones can tell you what questions to ask, where the start looking and best practices...but all the reference information is online and so are a lot of tutorials to get you started. If you want info related to web development start here:
W3Schools Online Web Tutorials

3. Android uses bastardized Java...that works with the Dalvik VM. I would write some simple programs in Java before you move to android development. Once you have a solid grasp of OOP then move on to programming for Android. Eclipse is the development environment of choice for Android. Start here for that: Building Your First App | Android Developers

The most important attribute for a programmer is that you continue to have an aptitude and interest in learning (and teaching yourself) new languages, tool-kits, and new ways of solving old problems. What languages you know does not matter so much.

 

[cvic]

Thanks you guys... I learned a lot already!

 

[tensazan]

Just a heads up, java IDEs/compilers can be a bit touchy sometimes. I just took a java class this past semester in college, and sometimes even the teacher had some problems with eclipse.