Programming is a skill that is becoming increasingly sought after in the job market. Having at least a basic understanding of how software functions is helpful for anyone who interacts with technology. With a background in programming, you can get a job coding, designing software, data architecture, or creating intuitive user interfaces.
But what programming language should you learn? You’ll find a seemingly infinite number of programming languages that are free to learn and develop projects with online. With the field of technology growing exponentially each year, the internet is a great place to start when trying to explore the latest developments or discover a new skill.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common types of programming languages and give you some resources you can use to start learning.
5 major types of programming languages
While you’ll find dozens of ways to classify various programming languages, they generally fall into five major categories. Keep in mind that some languages may fall under more than one type:
1. Procedural programming languages
A procedural language follows a sequence of statements or commands in order to achieve a desired output. Each series of steps is called a procedure, and a program written in one of these languages will have one or more procedures within it. Common examples of procedural languages include:
- C and C++
- Java
- Pascal
- BASIC
C++ is a great programming language to learn if you’re also interested in learning more about how computers function. While it may not be as readable as other high-level programming languages like Python, it can still be beginner-friendly. You can give it a try for free by enrolling in Codio’s introductory online program, Programming in C++: A Hands-on Introduction Specialization. After a month, you’ll have created and ran your first program in C++.
specialization
Programming in C++: A Hands-on Introduction
Hands-on Introduction to C++ Programming. Code and run your first C++ program in minutes without installing anything!
4.6
Beginner level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you’ll build:
Programming Principles, File Management, Object Oriented Design, Integrated Development Environments, C++ (Programming Language), Software Documentation, Data Validation, Computer Programming, Maintainability, Data Storage, Computer Science, Data Import/Export, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Pseudocode
2. Functional programming languages
Rather than focusing on the execution of statements, functional languages focus on the output of mathematical functions and evaluations. Each function–a reusable module of code–performs a specific task and returns a result. The result will vary depending on what data you input into the function. Some popular functional programming languages include:
- Scala
- Erlang
- Haskell
- Elixir
- F#
3. Object-oriented programming languages (OOP)
This type of language treats a program as a group of objects composed of data and program elements, known as attributes and methods. Objects can be reused within a program or in other programs. This makes it a popular language type for complex programs, as code is easier to reuse and scale. Some common object-oriented languages include:
- Java
- Python
- PHP
- C++
- Prolog
- Abyss
- Data log
- Alma-0
Ruby
4. Scripting languages
Programmers use scripting languages to automate repetitive tasks, manage dynamic web content, or support processes in larger applications. Some common scripting languages include:
- PHP
- Ruby
- Python
- bash
- Perl
- Node.js
Linux operating system is the primary choice for those who prefer open-source software [1]. Familiarizing yourself with Linux can be useful for someone who is interested in learning scripting languages.
5. Logic programming languages
Instead of telling a computer what to do, a logic programming language expresses a series of facts and rules to instruct the computer on how to make decisions. Some examples of logic languages include:
- Prolog
- Absys
- Datalog
- Alma-0
