A Totally Tubular Guide to Starting with Text-Based Coding

The 411 on Text-Based Coding

If you’re anything like me, the thought of learning text-based coding can be a total buzzkill. Maybe it’s ’cause I came up as a millennial, tweaking my Myspace with some HTML or sprucing up my Neopets profile. Not to stir up a coding feud (if you even consider HTML coding) … I know Python is totally different, but back in the late ’90s and early ’00s, being able to rock HTML and create your own website was the ultimate flex. There’s a boatload of resources out there for diving into text-based coding, which can feel totally overwhelming, so I have your back. Let’s narrow it down a bit.

A Very Good Place to Start

First off, there’s a ton of scripting languages out there. So, the big question is, what’s gonna vibe with your goals and interests the most? Personally, I’d throw my vote in for Python for beginners. It’s easy to read and super flexible. Of course, as you level up, you might wanna dip your toes into Java or tackle the whole “C” crew (C, C++, etc.).

If you’re a total newbie to coding, I’d suggest starting with “Compute It“. It’s gonna teach you how to read code by putting you in the shoes of the computer. You’ll get the basics of programming down pat, which is gonna help you chat with computers like a pro.

After that, check out “Scratch“. I’ve seen 3rd graders go from coding basics to whipping up their own video games with Scratch. They’ve got a whole section just for Educators, with resources for you and your students. Plus, you can connect with other teachers on the same journey and swap ideas.

Ready to Fly While Being “Fly”

If you’re patient and dedicated (seriously, teach me your ways), Code Academy is a goldmine. They offer classes for C++, Python, Java, JavaScript, HTML, and more. Oh, and did I mention they’re free? So you can learn code without having to drop a ton of cash? Sign me up!

Personally, micro:bit’s MakeCode has been my jam for learning scripting. It lets you switch between block coding and script coding, which is rad (plus, you can get your own micro:bit here). I can build a code using blocks and then peep how it looks in Python. Micro:bit also has a bunch of tutorials that walk you through building code step by step. It’s pretty dope… no diggity.

End of the Road

Anyhow, I hope this has given you some basic first steps without totally blowing your mind. I know there’s a lot more out there, but these are my personal faves. Hit me up if you wanna chat more or drop your own faves my way. Alright, I’m outta here! Peace out!

 – Chauntée Pitts