Is C Good for Beginners?
Learning to code can often be a daunting task for beginners with no idea where to start. As learning to code is similar to learning a new language, it’s essential to find a program, like C, that teaches you the fundamentals. But is it good for beginners?
Because C is one of the earliest written code systems, it’s excellent for beginners. Learning C will provide a fundamental understanding of popular coding systems used throughout the industry, which gives new coders an edge.
Though C is a complex language—akin to Latin—with bases in the early 20th century, it introduces coding principles and lays out some of the most basic coding functions in the industry. Below, we’ll discuss why beginners should—and most often—choose C as their software of choice.
Is C Beginner Friendly?
If you have no experience with coding, C probably seems a little daunting. It may be challenging to learn if you’re new to the language, but learning C is the best starting point. Multiple platforms enable you to learn the language; you can find websites online, take free courses, or order a training program like this one.
Because of how common the C language is in the industry, learning the language is easy for beginners building a resume or updating their skill set. If you enjoy learning about technology, you should be able to catch on pretty quickly due to the number of training programs available.
After learning C, you’ll have everything you need to develop with more complex programs, such as Java, C++, and Python. Though you can jump straight into learning these other programs, beginning with C will help you develop a deeper understanding of the coding process.
Is C Difficult to Learn for Beginners?
Though you will be developing coded language for tasks independently, the C language is simple to learn. There are only 32 keywords in C code, so most tasks will use the same functions in different orders.
C is probably the easiest code to learn for beginners. There are fewer libraries, so you will have much less to memorize. Also, after developing skills with C, it’s much easier for beginners to jump into more complex programs like Java and Python.
Benefits of Beginners Learning C First
You’re probably familiar with the fundamentals of language. Whereas English is based in Latin, Greek, and Anglo-Saxon, code tends to be derived from the original coding system known as C. The C language was written by Dennis Ritchie between 1969 and 1973 to develop a universal language for creating operating systems.
Some of the most common advantages to C make the language a great starting point for beginners. Some of these include:
- Being a middle-level language
- Presenting fundamentals related to computer theory
- Having a versatile setup for operating systems and applications
- Using fewer libraries than other languages
- Developing with swift execution time
- C’s use of embedded programming
(Source: GeekforGeeks)
These benefits show the versatility and unique design of this early coding system. Though C was one of the first coding languages to be created, it has withstood the tests of time for good reason.
As a mid-level language, C can be used to create and maintain operating systems. Though this is not a unique feature, C was the first to do so while still being able to control application-level programing. So, the versatility of the C language sets you up for success in the coding industry.
How Do Beginners Learn C?
With C language, beginners are exposed to the fundamentals of computer programming, which enable them to work with newer technology.
As code has updated and grown, many of these fundamentals are no longer visible while working with higher-level technology of the modern age. However, C’s fundamentals will enable you to work with newer technology without getting lost in the code. C language is the basis for several newer tech advancements, including:
- Computer networks
- Compiler design
- Computer architecture
- Operating systems
- CPU cache
- Memory
- Network adapters
(Sources: GeeksforGeeks and Free Code Camp)
If you want to work with any of these systems, you will need to learn “the reference language for computer science,” which is built from C.
Learning Not to Depend on a Coding Library
In coding, a library is a set of functions used to develop codded software. As C uses minimal libraries compared to high-level languages, you will be taxed to write most of your own code from the ground up.
This can be a negative if you would rather rely on set functions to develop programs. However, this enables you to develop analytical skills that translate to more complex coding tasks. If you become reliant on libraries, you may not develop the skills necessary to write code when those functions are unavailable.
How Beginners Can Use C in the Workforce
As previously mentioned, the C language can swiftly execute functions due to its design. This is because coders using C have to manage memory options by themselves. There is no set program to collect garbage, so this is something you would have to learn.
Managing memory while coding can be a complex task because not ridding your code of garbage will result in bugs inside the software. For a beginner, learning how to manage memory is difficult but necessary for working with complex software.
Additionally, if you plan on working with technology that requires embedded programming, knowing the basics of C language is essential. Embedded programs are found in many forms of new technology, including:
- Automotive technology
- Robotics
- Hardware
- Military equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Aviation technology
(Source: Free Code Camp and GeeksforGeeks)
This microcontroller programming is used in many complex technologies that are widely essential in industrial settings. C language is used to design these complex systems, so beginning with C enables you to adapt to multiple industries.
Final Thoughts
Learning the C language enables you to code more independently. The language is versatile and spread across many software and hardware programs in the tech industry.
If you choose to begin with C, you need to prepare for dedicating time to learning complex tasks, but that knowledge is transferable to almost any tech industry. Happy coding!