Choosing your first programming Language

You want to learn your first programming language, you went through various blogs, youtube videos and now you are more confused about where to start. JavaScript Devs are recommending, JS is the only language you need to learn, Python Devs are showing how useful python is in every field, Some Tech enthusiasts are saying rust with Solana is the actual future to all, etc and at last, you stumbled upon advice from a software engineer, and he said: "Programming language is only a tool, you use them to successfully finish your project". You liked the Idea.

Now, after some googling, you find out your dream project can be made using most of the programming languages you got suggested earlier. So, from where should you start ? Here are some tips to identify your first programming languages to start with.

Make your goals clear

At first just try to make your mind, what you want to be? A Game Developer, A data Scientist, a Full Stack Developer, or Something else? Once you have made your mind, the path will be much more narrowed down to you. For example, If you want to be a Game Dev, starting with C++ or C# will be a good idea, If you want to be a Data Scientist Python, R, etc should be in your options . If you can't make your mind yet or don't want to settle for a particular field yet, don't worry. Try other tips, you don't have to you can find your way while learning.

Language Matters

Though it is said that, the programming language doesn't matter but many of the features still matter. Try to choose a relatively modern language that is still in use in various applications and gets upgraded. If enough quality Learning material could be obtained or not. Also, check for the community of the language, if it is not with helpful people or small, I will recommend avoiding the language as a beginner.

Much Independence is not always good

Try to start with the languages that impose rules on you. As a beginner, we generally try to avoid the hard way, and that's what makes the language, which gives us more independence over anything, evil. We learn the best practices the hard way or write some really bad code and many times try to avoid the strict languages in future too. Either learn what types and typecasting are or choose/practice static typing. Learn about Object Oriented Programming or Functional or choose a language that mandates you to write either full Functional or full Object-Oriented Code.

Eco-System

A good language ecosystem is also a great addition to a good community. Check the usage and support of the package management tools that the language offers. The types of frameworks or libraries, that can be used with the language whether they're used in productions or not, etc.

Job-Support

Most of us are trying to be in IT because we want to earn money there. So, why not check what opportunities my first language can offer? Take 15-20 minutes go into Linkedin or job sites, search Xyz devs, and see how well welcomed you're in the industries. Are there openings for less experienced? Are some good companies hiring the devs? Do Some Research.

At last, don't be in hurry, don't stop after making some small projects using loops or built-in data types. Try to implement the frameworks/libraries it has to offer, make projects using that. Focus on the core programming concepts you've learned while making the projects, you can always use them somewhere else. It's not possible to be a good software engineer within a month or two, it takes patience, experience, IDEs with dark themes and autocompletion, sleepless nights, production breaks, burnouts, imposter syndromes, lots of caffeine to be able to google the right things in the right way.

Good Luck.