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Created on 19.10.2020 | Updated on 09.10.2024

Beginner’s guide to learning programming: which programming language is suitable for what purposes?

There are many languages in the world of programming, each with its own strengths and areas of application. Among the most important are Java, Python, C++, SQL and JavaScript. In this post, you will find out how and where you can learn these languages, which programming language is right for which purpose, and the hurdles that might be in store for you when learning them.

At a glance

  • Learn to program: what you should know about five of the most important programming languages before you start learning them.
  • First-hand tips: these seven tips will make learning a programming language easier.
  • Start your IT career: to gain a foothold in IT, you can get started as a junior software developer or in IT entry programmes.

Interested in getting a start in IT at PostFinance? Then our IT entry programme could be right for you. 

Posting for you

Michael Kalbermatter, Solution Architecture Owner at PostFinance

In his role as solution architecture owner, Michael is responsible for architecture and for technological aspects within the solution team’s area of influence. He supports the developers in the teams who develop solutions based on the preferred architecture model. Michael is currently working with modern approaches such as event-driven architecture and functional programming. He also fills the role of lead developer, using technologies such as Java, Spring Boot, TypeScript, Angular and Kafka to develop software solutions.

  • How can I learn Java?

    Java is one of the most widely taught programming languages at universities and is offered in many online courses on platforms like Coursera, edX and Udacity. There are also numerous books and tutorials online if you’re looking to teach yourself. Courses such as “Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals” on Coursera or “Learn Java” on Codecademy are particularly recommended.

    How long does it take to learn Java?

    Depending on your intensity of study, it can take between three and six months until you can write basic programs. The learning curve for Java is relatively steep, as it has strict rules and syntax specifications. This strictness also makes Java a very robust and error-resistant language.

    Example of code in the Java programming language:

    Java codeOutput
    Java code

    public class HelloWorld {
        public static void main(String[] args) {

            System.out.println("Hello, World!");

        }

    }

    Output
    Hello, World!

    Where is Java used?

    Java is often used for software development in large enterprises – for example, for programs that connect different workflows and processes within a company. Thanks to the extensive Java ecosystem, which offers a large number of finished collections of code and tools, Java lends itself to particularly efficient and versatile use. Java is also ideal for applications that take care of important tasks in the background and that need to be stable and easily expandable to cope with growing requirements. And Java is used to develop Android apps for mobile devices.

  • How can I learn Python?

    Python is particularly suitable for beginners and is frequently taught in schools and universities. Platforms like Codecademy, Coursera and Udacity offer good courses. There are also numerous online tutorials and books. Recommended courses include for example “Python for Everybody” on Coursera and “Automate the Boring Stuff with Python”, available as a book and online course.

    How long does it take to learn Python?

    With Python, you can start writing programs after just one or two months. The language is known for its simplicity and readability, making the learning process much easier. Many beginners manage to create simple scripts within just a few weeks – for example, a small program to manage a shopping list or to automate recurring tasks like moving files regularly to different folders – allowing them to achieve practical results quickly and develop a basic understanding of programming.

    Example of code in the Python programming language:

    Python codeOutput
    Python code
    print("Hello, World!")
    Output
    Hello, World!

    Where is Python used?

    Python is used in web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence and scientific research. Thanks to powerful libraries such as Pandas (for data manipulation and analysis), NumPy (for numerical calculations) and TensorFlow (for the development of neural networks and other machine learning models), Python is widely used in data science and machine learning in particular. For instance, TensorFlow enables the creation and training of complex models for image recognition or language processing.

  • How can I learn C++?

    C++ is a more complex language that is often taught on IT degree courses. Online courses on platforms such as Udemy and edX are good resources, as are books. Some useful examples are “Beginning C++ Programming” on Udemy and the book “C++ Primer”.

    How long does it take to learn C++?

    It can take six months or more to get a good grasp of C++. This programming language offers many functions, making it powerful – but also complex, so the learning curve is steep. An example of this are its pointers, which are used in C++ to point to memory addresses. They are a central concept that makes it possible to work directly with computer memory. This can be a little confusing to begin with. And understanding how memory is managed in the computer also requires lots of practice and patience.

    Example of code in the C++ programming language:

    C++ codeOutput
    C++ code

    #include
    using namespace std;

    int main() {
        cout << "Hello, World!";
        return 0;
    }

    Output
    Hello, World!

    Where is C++ used?

    C++ is often used for challenging tasks that demand high performance. A good example is game development: the game engine Unreal Engine uses C++ for video game programming to ensure a fast and responsive gaming experience. Another example is system programming: operating systems such as Windows are written partly in C++ in order to communicate efficiently with the computer’s hardware. Real-time applications, as used in the automotive industry to control vehicle functions, also often rely on C++ to ensure fast response times and high reliability.

  • How can I learn SQL?

    SQL is less complex than other programming languages and is often taught on database courses at universities. Platforms like Codecademy (“Learn SQL”) and Coursera (“Introduction to Databases”) offer good introductions.

    How long does it take to learn SQL?

    You can learn SQL in just a few weeks. Because it’s a declarative language, the focus is on what you want to achieve rather than how to go about doing it. This means that you simply specify what data you need, and the language takes care of the details of how to retrieve that data. Understanding the basic concepts and commands is therefore relatively easy, making SQL particularly user-friendly for beginners.

    Example of code in the SQL programming language:

    SQL codeOutput
    SQL code

    SELECT * FROM users WHERE age > 18;

    Output
    Id; name; age
    1; Alice; 25
    2; Tim; 22
    3; Carol; 35

    Where is SQL used?

    SQL is used to manage and query databases in almost all areas of software development. It is the standard language for relational databases, which are a structured way of storing data. In relational databases, information is organized in tables, similar to a spreadsheet program. Each table consists of rows and columns, with each row representing a data record and each column containing a specific type of information. SQL is used by almost all enterprises that work with data to organize, store and retrieve their data efficiently.

  • How can I learn JavaScript?

    JavaScript is the language of the web and is offered on many online courses on platforms like freeCodeCamp, Codecademy and Udemy. Many web development workshops and boot camps also teach JavaScript. “The Complete JavaScript Course” on Udemy and the book “JavaScript: The Good Parts” are particularly recommended.

    How long does it take to learn JavaScript?

    You will be able to create your first interactive websites after about two to three months. JavaScript is relatively easy to get into and offers a quick sense of achievement, making it a popular language for beginners.

    Example of code in the JavaScript programming language:

    JavaScript codeOutput
    JavaScript code
    console.log("Hello, World!");
    Output
    Hello, World!

    Where is JavaScript used?

    JavaScript is used mainly in web development to design the user interface (front end), and sometimes also for server-side applications (back end). Frameworks are finished collections of code and tools that help developers work more quickly and easily. They offer ready-made functions and structures that are frequently reused, so you don’t have to write everything from scratch. Examples of these frameworks are React, Angular and Vue.js for designing websites and Node.js, which makes it possible to also use JavaScript on servers. These frameworks make JavaScript an important component of modern web technologies.

Programming languages – an overview

Programming languageLevel of difficultyPopularityFrequency in practice
Programming language
Java
Level of difficulty
Medium
Popularity
High
Frequency in practice
Very high
Programming language
Python
Level of difficulty
Low
Popularity
Very high
Frequency in practice
High
Programming language
C++
Level of difficulty
High
Popularity
Medium
Frequency in practice
Medium
Programming language
SQL
Level of difficulty
Low
Popularity
Medium
Frequency in practice
Very high
Programming language
JavaScript
Level of difficulty
Low
Popularity
Very high
Frequency in practice
Very high

Programming languages in demand in the world of work

Python, Java and JavaScript are the languages particularly in demand nowadays. Python is used in many emerging fields such as data science and AI, Java remains dominant in enterprise software and Android development, and JavaScript is indispensable for web development. Skills in these languages will open up the best opportunities on the job market for you. In addition, SQL skills are essential for almost any job related to databases, while C++ is particularly in demand for game development and system programs.

Which programming languages are actually used most frequently at PostFinance and what are they used for?

NameSpecific areas of application at PostFinance 
Name
Java
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
Development of backend applications that take care of data processing in the background and Android apps used on smartphones.
Name
JavaScript/
TypeScript
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
In frontend services (user interface) such as e-finance, postfinance.ch, e-payment and other online applications, both external and internal.
Name
C++
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
C++ is often used for the development of backend applications (background processing), especially for ongoing development of existing services, while Java is used for new development.
Name
Python
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
  • Data analysis and evaluation
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning with large language models (LLM)
  • Automation of processes in areas such as the CI/CD pipeline, which makes software development and deployment more efficient.
Name
Kotlin
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
Development of Android apps for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
Name
Swift
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
Development of iOS apps for mobile devices such as iPhones and iPads.
Name
PL/SQL
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
Procedural Language/Structured Query Language
Security-related and performance-intensive processes are executed directly in the database, such as in e-banking.
Name
Go
Specific areas of application at PostFinance
  • Automation and management of infrastructure services
  • GitOps self-services in the CI/CD pipeline area enable developers to test and deploy their software automatically and efficiently directly via GitLab.

Personal tips for learning a programming language

  • Practical application: learn by implementing small projects. Theory is important, but practice is essential. Projects can help you to consolidate the knowledge you have acquired and gain practical experience.
  • Understand concepts: understanding the concepts behind a programming language is more important than focusing on the specific syntax. Having mastered the basic principles, you will be able to work more flexibly with different programming languages and adapt more easily to new technologies.
  • Consistency: study regularly over an extended period rather than trying to do everything at once. Daily practice, even if only for a short time, can be much more effective than infrequent but long study sessions.
  • Community: join online communities or find study partners. Exchanging ideas with other people can be very helpful. Platforms like Stack Overflow, Reddit and GitHub are great places to ask questions, get help and find inspiration.
  • Make mistakes: don’t be afraid to make mistakes. They are a natural part of the learning process. Every error message is an opportunity to learn more about the language and how it works.
  • Patience: learning to program takes time. Be patient, and don’t give up when things get difficult. Making progress may seem slow at times, but with perseverance you will achieve your goals.
  • Different environments: applications written for your own use or as an exercise are often simpler and less challenging. However, in critical professional applications, it is important to ensure that the programs not only work, but also that they are stable, easy to expand and can be maintained in the long term so that they continue to run smoothly even as usage increases and new requirements arise.

Which jobs are particularly well suited to IT newcomers?

Getting into the IT industry can be very rewarding – this is a sector that is growing continuously and that offers a wide range of career opportunities. For IT beginners, there are various positions available that are particularly well suited to gaining valuable experience and developing the necessary skills. Here are the best entry-level opportunities for developers:

Junior software developers

Description
Junior developers work under the guidance of experienced developers, supporting them with the creation and maintenance of software applications. 
Skills required
  • Basic knowledge of one or more programming languages (e.g. Java, Python, C#) – this means that you can write simple programs, understand basic concepts such as loops, conditions and functions, and have gained initial practical experience.
  • An understanding of software development processes, ideally from practical experience in projects or courses taken during your studies. 
Benefits
  • Practical experience in software development
  • Opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues.

IT entry programmes

Description
IT entry programmes or trainee programmes offer graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience in the IT industry and get to know various business units. These programmes combine practical assignments with training opportunities and mentoring, with a view to promoting your personal and professional development.
What you have to offer
(required in most programmes)
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in IT or a related field
  • Basic knowledge of programming languages and IT technologies
  • High level of willingness to learn and the flexibility to take on new challenges
  • Excellent communication skills in German and English
  • Ability to work in a team and an interest in digitization
Benefits
  • Practical experience in various IT projects and units
  • Access to workshops, training courses and a training budget
  • Professional mentoring and support from experienced colleagues
  • Opportunity to build a valuable network within the IT industry

Is on-the-job training possible as a software developer?

Yes, excellent on-the-job training is possible as a software developer. Given the fast-paced nature of the technology sector, developers are well advised to undergo continuous further training, both on and off the job. Many companies actively support ongoing education by offering training courses, workshops and access to online courses. Developers also benefit from experienced colleagues in pair programming sessions or code reviews, where they can get direct feedback and learn best practices. This combination of practical experience and support encourages the continuous development of skills and helps you further your career.
PostFinance is also a company where learning is an integral part of the work and a relevant success factor for the transformation. Employees are continuously developing their skills – whether through discussion with colleagues, by experimenting or by completing learning and development programmes.

Is it possible to learn new programming languages easily? What about changing jobs?

Yes, it is usually possible to learn new programming languages relatively easily, especially if you already have experience with other languages. Most concepts are transferable, and there are many resources available to support the learning process, such as online courses and tutorials. With regard to changing jobs, it is often helpful to familiarize yourself with new technologies, as many companies value versatile developers who are willing to adapt to new challenges.

With these tips and a clear learning path, you can be confident of success in your efforts to learn a new programming language. Good luck on your journey to becoming a programmer!

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