Whether you’re looking for a new career or simply want to pick up a new skill, teaching yourself code from the comfort of your own couch is easier than it’s ever been before. Learning code can be particularly helpful if you’re going to school for a computer science degree; knowing code can make you more employable over a wider variety of fields. Here are the top sites to learn code from home.
1. w3schools
If you want to learn basic computer programming, this is one of the best places to start. The site is full of easy-to-use html tutorials that show you how to format, change colors and even create lists using HTML. The site also teaches those interested about CSS, JavaScript, JQuery, SML, PHP and more. With its simple set up, the site allows you to focus on what it’s trying to teach you and even allows you to practice what you’ve learned.
2. Codeacademy
Codeacademy was started by two friends with the assumption that users have no prior knowledge of coding. By working through small, simple exercises, you gradually build your coding knowledge. Currently, the site only offers lessons in JavaScript but, for the average beginner, these lessons are more than enough to get you started. Because programming is essentially the same across the board, the site can give you a solid foundation for future skills.
3. Khan Academy
While this site is yet another that offers free JavaScript tutorials, the focus lies on graphics and animations. If you have an interest in designing games or creating digital art, this is the site that you want to start on. If you’re looking for skills that you can utilize in business pursuits, this may not be the academy for you. If, on the other hand, you want to create fun, colorful websites, you’ve found the right site.
4. Code School
If you’re a newbie to the world of coding, Code School offers some great, free tutorials that will help you get started. If you already have a solid foundation, the paid tutorials will allow you to expand your skills. Web designers looking to brush up on their skills will appreciate the site, as will those who want to add Git, CSS, Node.js and Ruby on Rails coding to their repertoire.
5. Dave’s Site
For those looking to start their own website, this tutorial is one of the best places to learn coding skills. Put together in what the site creator calls “mini chapters,” you’ll be guided step-by-step through lessons that will help you create all of the different aspects of your site. Once you’ve made it to the last chapter, you’ll have a site that you’ll be proud to release to the world.
Whether you’re a computer programmer, a home business owner or a blogger with something to say, coding is an integral part of creating and maintaining a website. With the five sites above, you’ll be on your way to coding like a pro in no time.