The world runs on code-powered algorithms. Most of us however have no idea what code really is. A programming language is a formal language that can instruct a machine or a device to do something. Computer chips speak in binary code, a collection of zeros and ones, and we can’t, so we need an intermediary way of communicating.

There are many reasons to consider learning one of the many languages like a career shift, to create better tools for yourself or even as a hobby or challenge that can help expand your brain. However, my favorite reason is to learn how to think better in general. Machines are logical and can’t really guess, so, you have to be very clear in how you give them instructions.
In the not-too-distant past you had to buy a book or take a class, choose a language and install the appropriate suite or tool you wrote code on (which was often challenging) and then muddle through most of it on your own. Luckily for you, it is now easier than ever. All you need is an internet enabled device and some free time. You can even get started on your phone if you want but a bigger screen will definitely make your life easier. A free weekend might be the perfect opportunity to get yourself set up and started. Here are some different ways to get you started.

Coded
Coded is a locally homegrown organization that offers intensive courses that teach the latest programming languages and frameworks currently used by leading tech companies around the world. They even offer a Weekend @Codedbootcamp that helps you learn what you need from Friday to Monday.

Grasshopper
This is a super user-friendly app that is geared towards people who have no knowledge of writing code. The app teaches coding fundamentals using JavaScript and everything is in bite-sized nuggets of information making it perfect for newbies and even kids.

Code.org
Code.org is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to computer science in schools. It is aimed for children, but you can filter for more advanced classes and can focus on learning how to think in code which is a great gateway to more difficult things.

Take a course
Websites like Udemy and Skillshare boast hundreds if not thousands of computer programming classes. You can even benefit from Ivy League universities like Stanford and MIT that now offer short courses and certificates for people who want to learn. These have the benefit of more formal education, perfect for people interested in making a career move.

Raspberry Pi Kit
The Raspberry Pi is a low-cost, high-performance single-board computer that comes with free software that you can control with your own code. This might not be the conventional route to coding, but it is FUN. You can start with their guided projects and work your way up to building amazing things like musical instruments or robots.

Photo by Oskar Yildiz on Unsplash.