People often ask me which programming language they should start with: JavaScript or Python. As a senior developer and author of books on both JavaScript and Python, I can tell you that both languages are great options for beginners and extremely popular in the industry. However, there are certain differences between them that can help you make an informed decision.
JavaScript, being the language of the web, has a significant advantage in frontend development. If building websites and web applications is your primary focus, learning JavaScript would be a wise choice. On the other hand, Python shines in the field of data science and machine learning. It offers numerous packages and libraries specifically designed for these areas, making it an ideal language for aspiring data scientists and machine learning enthusiasts.
If you’re still uncertain about which language to choose, consider the context in which you’ll be using it. If you’re currently studying or planning to pursue a career at a company that uses a specific language, it might be beneficial to learn that one. Familiarizing yourself with the language used by your school or desired workplace can give you a head start.
However, if you’re unable to decide based on these factors, let me make a recommendation. In my opinion, JavaScript is a highly flexible language that can be used both in frontend and backend development. Its ability to run inside web browsers provides a substantial advantage. Therefore, if versatility and the potential to work on a wide range of projects are important to you, I suggest starting with JavaScript.
In conclusion, both JavaScript and Python have their own strengths and applications. Consider your interests, goals, and the specific domain you wish to work in when choosing between the two. Happy learning!