S3Corp. Tech Blog

Essential Programming Languages to Learn in 2018

Software development is a fast-paced field where new programming languages, frameworks, and technologies can emerge, gain popularity, and eventually fade into obscurity within just a few years. This makes it important for developers to continuously update their skills to remain competitive. In this context, learning the right programming languages can help developers stay relevant and succeed in an ever-changing job market.

Here, we explore the top five programming languages to learn in 2018, with insights into why they are important for both aspiring and established developers.

Java

Java has maintained its position as one of the most widely used programming languages for years. The demand for Android applications has propelled its popularity even further. Java is the backbone of Android app development, making it a key language for anyone looking to enter the mobile development market, especially in areas like app outsourcing. Since Android holds a dominant share of the global mobile operating system market, Java’s relevance remains strong, particularly among developers who want to create Android-based applications.

Java is also used in a variety of web applications, making it versatile beyond mobile app development. Many large-scale systems rely on Java due to its stability, security features, and scalability. Large enterprises across sectors, including finance, healthcare, and retail, depend on Java for mission-critical applications, ensuring that the language continues to be in demand in 2018 and beyond.

Java’s extensive community support, along with a rich ecosystem of libraries and frameworks, makes it easier for developers to build efficient and secure applications. For those looking to gain skills in Java, mastering the language can open doors to various job opportunities in both mobile and web development sectors.

Python

Python has seen a remarkable surge in popularity over the past few years. According to data from job listings on platforms like Indeed.com, Python gained approximately 5,000 additional job postings in 2017 alone, signaling strong demand for developers proficient in the language. Python is a general-purpose programming language, which means it can be used across a wide range of applications, including web development, software development, and scientific computing.

Python is particularly well-regarded for its simplicity and readability, making it an ideal choice for beginner developers. Despite its ease of use, Python is a powerful language that has become a staple in several emerging fields, most notably in data science and machine learning. Python’s use in machine learning is a driving force behind its continued popularity. Libraries like TensorFlow, Keras, and Scikit-learn have made it easier for developers to implement machine learning models, contributing to Python’s growth in this space.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has created a strong demand for developers skilled in Python. This makes it a valuable language for those interested in breaking into these high-demand areas. Additionally, Python’s role in web development frameworks like Django and Flask has also added to its significance in the development community. For those considering a career in data science, Python’s dominance in this space makes it an essential language to learn.

C++

C++ is an extension of the older C programming language and remains one of the most powerful and versatile languages available. It is commonly used in system software, application software, game development, and embedded systems. C++ allows developers to write high-performance applications that can directly interface with hardware, making it the go-to choice for systems that require speed and efficiency, such as operating systems, drivers, and real-time systems.

While C++ is often considered more challenging to learn compared to other languages like Python or Java, it remains a fundamental language in the software development field. The language’s complexity is one reason why it is used in legacy systems within large enterprises. Many large corporations still maintain systems built with C++ due to its high performance and long history of reliability.

Learning C++ can be particularly beneficial for developers interested in systems programming, game development, or working with high-performance computing applications. In addition, many programming job opportunities in industries like gaming, finance, and aerospace often require expertise in C++. Although the language may have a steeper learning curve, its continued use in critical systems makes it an important language to learn for developers in 2018.

C# (C-sharp)

C# (pronounced “C-sharp”) is a language developed by Microsoft and primarily used for building a wide range of applications, from desktop software to web applications and games. While C# may not have the same level of demand as Java or Python, it remains a key player in the development of Windows-based applications and the video game industry.

The gaming sector, in particular, has seen widespread adoption of C# due to its integration with the Unity game development engine. Unity allows developers to build games for multiple platforms, including mobile, PC, and consoles, and C# is the primary language used for scripting within Unity. As the gaming industry continues to grow, mastering C# can open doors to opportunities in game development, particularly for those working with Unity.

Despite a slight decline in usage in recent years, C# remains a valuable language, particularly for developers interested in enterprise applications and the gaming sector. Its association with Microsoft’s .NET framework also makes it a strong candidate for developing enterprise-level web applications. C# developers can expect to find job opportunities in various sectors, from gaming to finance and software development.

JavaScript

JavaScript is an essential programming language for web app development, and it is one of the most popular languages in use today. Unlike Java, JavaScript is primarily used for front-end web development, enabling developers to control the behavior and interaction of elements on a webpage. It allows developers to build dynamic websites and web applications that respond to user input in real time.

The rise of single-page applications (SPAs) has further increased the importance of JavaScript, as it allows developers to create websites that load faster and offer a smoother user experience. JavaScript also plays a key role in server-side development through technologies like Node.js, making it a full-stack language that can be used to build both the front-end and back-end of web applications.

For web developers, JavaScript is a must-learn language. Its wide adoption means that JavaScript developers are in high demand, especially those with experience in popular frameworks and libraries like AngularJS, ReactJS, and EmberJS. These frameworks streamline the development process and allow developers to create more sophisticated applications with less code. With the rise of web applications, learning JavaScript opens up various opportunities in both freelance and full-time positions.

While it can be tempting to focus on newer or more niche programming languages, JavaScript remains indispensable for anyone pursuing a career in web development. Its ubiquity across the internet, from mobile to desktop platforms, ensures its place as one of the top languages to learn in 2018.

Conclusion

The software development landscape is constantly changing, and developers must adapt to new technologies and languages to stay competitive. The five programming languages outlined here – Java, Python, C++, C#, and JavaScript – each hold significant importance in 2018. Whether you’re looking to specialize in mobile app development, data science, or web development, mastering these languages will provide you with the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

Java and Python are two of the most in-demand languages, with Python’s increasing relevance in fields like data science and machine learning. C++ and C# remain important for systems programming and game development. Meanwhile, JavaScript is a critical language for web developers, offering a broad range of frameworks and libraries to enhance your coding workflow.

Learning these languages will not only help you keep pace with industry demands but also make you a versatile developer capable of tackling a variety of projects. Whether you’re working with global enterprises or mobile-focused startups, these languages are essential for building a successful career in software development.

If you’re interested in outsourcing development projects, knowing these languages can help you effectively communicate with your development team, ensuring that your project meets the desired quality standards. As always, staying current with programming trends and continuing to learn new skills is key to achieving long-term success in the software development field.