Morshed Java is now the world’s #1 development language for microservers. If I was hoping to launch a career in DevOps, AI, VR, Big Data, Continuous Integration, Analytics, Mobile, or Chatbots, it would be my preferred coding language to learn.
This quick guide on how to get started with Java programming will give your career a serious boost.
Step 1: Determine Whether You Have a Platform to Build Upon
Java is an accessible programming language to learn. So, it doesn’t matter if your background comes from chemical engineering rather than software engineering. Still, I know from personal experience that learning Java programming is easier if you already know C++. This is because the Java language and syntax is based on the C++ language.
Any experience with other computer programming languages will be helpful too. So, be sure to consider this before you look at how to get started with Java programming.
Step 2: Learn the Basic Terminology
My one warning to Java beginners is that there are many libraries and frameworks to learn. Thankfully, many aspects can come at a later date. For now, it’s probably best to focus on the following;
- Java identifiers used as names for all classes, variables, and methods,
- Access modifiers and non-access modifiers,
- Class variables, instance variables, and local variables,
- The full list of 42 Java keywords,
- The difference between lowercase and uppercase actions.
These five fundamentals must be understood. Once they are, you will be on your way to joining a community of over 9.4 million Java developers.
Step 3: Practice Coding
It sounds obvious, but the number of students who don’t actively code astounds me. My advice for beginners would be to code daily, or as close to daily as possible.
Firstly, you’ll need a Java Runtime Environment to run Java applications. Following this, you can access a Java Development Kit to write Java Code and a Java Integrated Development Environment (IDE). The IDE is for composing, debugging, and compiling code. After this, you can get structured projects from various sources, like;
Step 4: Code on Paper
Coding is a computer-based task. However, writing variables onto paper can be very useful. For starters, the repetition encourages you to learn vars and operations far sooner.
More importantly, you can run each step through your mind to work out the solution. This allows you to quickly develop your understanding of functions and operations. Moreover, it prevents you from making mistakes in your coding application. In turn, this could save you hours of trying to identify your error.
Step 5: Use Java for Mobile Applications
Java launched in 1995 and has been used for applications across multiple platforms. However, it now operates on over 3 billion smartphones. If you are eager to make a career from Java programming, it makes sense to focus on this environment.
Building upon the foundation from step three, you can hone skills for the mobile applications market by using projects such as;
- Developing a Smart City information app,
- Building an ATM interface,
- Creating Java games for mobile devices,
- Building a hotel or airline reservation system,
- Online exam apps.
Step 6: Be Proactive in Your Learning
I love using Java with websites, but it’s far from the only application. Web servers, games, presentations, and mobile apps examples of where it can be used.
Like Python and other programming languages, Java continuously developing. Keep your interest levels high by reading up on the latest topics and developments. As well as helping your learning curve, relevant knowledge will help you win more projects as you transition to the business world.
Step 7: Take a Java Course
I am a big advocate of learning computer programming through experience. Nevertheless, I cannot emphasize the benefits of guided learning enough. When looking at how to get started with Java programming, signing up for a course is essential. It’ll allow you to master the basics and start learning advanced programming.
In turn, you will develop faster and be positioned to seek help when difficulties surface.
Conclusion
Java is arguably the most important programming language for software engineers to learn in the current landscape. Start your journey today, and I guarantee that it’ll open the door to new opportunities.
