Learning to code is one of the most powerful and satisfying things you can ever do. If you’re a designer, learning to code can help you understand what you’re creating for, and if you’re looking to build a startup from scratch, being a technical founder can make things exponentially easier for you.
No matter why you want to learn, the only thing you really need is curiosity. But if you’re just starting out as a novice and don’t know where to begin, there are plenty of ways to get started. We presented this list of 7 ways to start learning how to code right now for free last month, and now we’re back with 5 more ways to start coding for free!
iTunes U
Apple just recently made some dramatic changes to iTunes U, and Stanford’s set of videos is quite an impressive offering. This especially true since all of the classes are free.
➤ iTunes U
Kids Ruby
We wrote about Kids Ruby this past December and honestly, you’ve got to start them young, right? With kids picking up on how to use a computer faster than ever before, why not teach them how to program too?
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Now, if you’re not a kid, this software might still be really helpful for you. Ruby is an intense programming language, so a gentle start may suit you well instead of being thrown into it!
Mozilla’s Developer Network
Mozilla’s Developer Network is a combination of a slick-looking directory and an impressive set of tutorials and demos.You may also want to check out Google’s own Code University.
➤ Mozilla’s Developer Network and Google’s Code University
P2PU
P2PU is an entirely free community of teachers and students, complete with courses you sign up for and assignments to complete. This class on HAML and SASS is an example of the kind of courses available.
➤ P2PU
Net Tuts+
I’m hesitant to include only one specific blog on this list, but I can’t help but praise Net Tuts+ for its two free 30 day courses (the rest are available via a premium membership).
There are so many other impressive tutorial sites out there devoted to Web design (read: Webdesigner Depot).
➤ Learn CSS in 30 days and Learn jQuery in 30 days
Read, Watch, Experiment (again)
Like I said in our last article, it can suck to learn the old-fashioned way, and that’s okay. Reading about programming may seem dull to many, but there’s also countless video tutorials and guides available online for every skill level. Gamification isn’t the only way to go, and sometimes all you need do to is work hard and find a few good forums (or just Stack Overflow).
In the end, there’s nothing better than getting your hands all dirty by diving into the code yourself. Mess around, have some fun and realize that you’re not supposed to pick everything up immediately. Don’t be afraid to take it one step at a time and then go make something awesome.
You can read our first list: 7 ways to start learning how to code right now for free, if you havent already.
Do you have any advice to share for beginners just getting started? Should there be a Part 3? Let us know in the comments below!
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