The Language of Computers

If you’ve ever atempted to learn a new language with little or no success, there's hope for you yet! Forget the flash cards, audio CDs, and concerns over your pronunciation, and step into the dynamic world of computer code. Whether we’re aware of it or not, there are hidden languages at work in the computer programs we use on a daily basis. When we input certain commands (as in, typing a certain word or clicking certain keys), that action is translated into the computer’s language, activating a series of on/off switches that produce the effect we see on screen. Each instruction is specific to each action, which the computer can run at a rate of millions of instructions every second!

Computer programmers are people who “write” the software, breaking down the actions into their individual parts. Jobs for computer programmers include things like: coding, debugging, maintenance, software testing, compilation, etc. Programmers not only think about how they want the end product to look, but also how all of the components fit together. By knowing certain computer languages, they are able to create complex and creative software.

Two of the most popular computer languages used today are C++ and Java (http://www.langpop.com/). C++ is used largely in systems software, application software and entertainment software, such as computer or video games. Java is more general-purpose and is able to be run almost anywhere.

So if you’ve ever wanted to branch out into the software industry, make yourself more marketable to employers, or even to just find a new hobby, check out KnowledgeCity’s free preview of its exclusive courses in C++ and Java Programming.