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Easy programming with Small Basic
One of the problems as operating systems get more complicated is that it becomes harder to learn to program. Well perhaps the basics of programming stay the same but our expectations of what we want to achieve are much higher. The days of being able to start typing a BASIC program as soon as the computer turns on are sadly over (what fun it was to play with Commodore 64s in high street shops). Things have taken a turn for the better now that Microsoft has launched a new programming language called Small Basic.
This download includes the software for writing Small Basic code and a document introducing the programming language. There's a couple of gaps in the document but it is enough to get you started.
As a beginners language, don't expect to be making your own version of Word but it will give a good grounding in how programs are made. The 15 basic commands are enough for a surprising number of tasks, and it is possible to import other, more advanced, commands later on.
I like Small Basic and think I will recommend it to anyone who asks about learning to program.
Other languages:
One of the problems when recommending a starting language is the sheer number of options, and that some are limited to particular operating systems. C is a very important language but quickly become rather complicated, as does C++. C# on the other hand is much more welcoming to the beginner, but is restricted to Windows computers. It's the first language I ever did anything meaningful with.
Visual Basic is also a good starting point and Microsoft provides the software for writing in these languages free for personal use.
Java is available for just about everything, which makes it attractive, but don't confuse it with Javascript, which is used in web browsers.
Speaking of which, you might decide that programming for the web is a good place to start in which case Javascript is very good place to start, maybe with a look at php as well.
Thank you. I've been wanting to learn programming, but I wasn't sure where to start.
Based on your review, I may just look at Easy Basic.
posted-by Suzanne | November 30, 2008 1:02 AM
Can easy basic be used to design a content management system and affiliate program together with a paid membership site?
posted-by Kenny Michaels | December 2, 2008 2:12 AM
I wonder if this will be like the BASIC I used on my trusty commodore 64 back in the day?
posted-by Oli Keswick | December 3, 2008 12:31 PM
This is great news! I remember learning Visual Basic for a job and I spent $60 on a book that was almost 500 pages long. I think this route will give the beginning BASIC programmer a leg up.
posted-by Charles | December 3, 2008 4:56 PM
This sounds like a great way to learn programming
posted-by brian | December 3, 2008 5:20 PM
Yes.. its quiet handy for newbie programmers. I came to know about this when I read the Small Basic: The Official Chillisoft Review couple of weeks back, it was nice.
posted-by Rosy | December 4, 2008 6:23 PM
This is good to know, I have been looking for a simple program like this for awhile.
posted-by Warning Spyware Detected On Your Computer | December 4, 2008 11:16 PM
Just the thought of learning something else is overwhelming right now but I suppose after the holidays and I get a little rest it will be much more attractive to think about learning a programing language. Based on your comments I think I might just start with C#. In the long run it might just make more sense to go with one I can stay with as opposed to having to start over once I get to a certain level like I assume I would have to do with Small Basic. Thoughts?
posted-by Jessie Henry | December 10, 2008 12:03 AM
Small Basic appears inadequate to be able to build useful windows applications. I would suggest anyone seriously interested in applying basic to windows applications, takes a look at Liberty BASIC, www.libertybasic.com
As skill levels increase, it has the ability to make use of the Windows API and for the registered version, to make stand alone applications.
posted-by Mike | January 27, 2009 8:18 PM
Have anyone tried this ? does it make easy like its sound ?
posted-by Xgrey | February 14, 2009 11:16 AM