Have you ever wondered how apps, video games, websites, or software work? Well, the answer is coding! In today’s digital world, coding powers almost everything we use. From sending a simple text message to playing games, and even running healthcare and banking systems, coding makes it all possible. But what is coding?
In this article, you’ll find the answer to the question, “What is coding?” You’ll learn how coding works and how it shapes our daily lives. As a bonus, you’ll also discover a course designed to help you start learning coding.
What is coding and how does it work?
Coding is the process of using a programming language to write instructions for a computer to execute specific tasks. Since computers don’t think or understand human language, people use programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ to communicate with them. These languages break down tasks into simple steps that computers can follow.
Now, computers work with binary code, which consists of line sequences of 0s and 1s. Every action a computer performs, such as opening a website or playing a video, results from processing these binary instructions. However, writing everything in binary would be exhausting and confusing for humans. That’s why programming languages were created. They work as a middle ground. Humans write the code in readable commands, and the computer translates it into binary.
Understanding what is coding involves logic, problem-solving, and creativity. You break down large problems into smaller tasks, figure out the best way to solve each part, and write the instructions clearly so the computer can follow them without mistakes.
Uses of Coding
Coding plays a huge role in modern life. Almost everything that uses electricity or the internet has some code running in the background. From the mobile apps that we use for entertainment to systems that we need for security, all of them are made possible because of coding. Below are deeper examples of applications of coding and how it helps us in our everyday lives.
1. Website Development
Every website you visit whether it be Google, YouTube, or Instagram, exists because of coding. Programmers wrote thousands of lines of code. What is coding creates the structure (HTML), the design (CSS), and the interaction (JavaScript) on a website.
For example, when you click the “Play” button on YouTube, the code tells the website what video to load, how to stream it, and where to display it on your screen. Without code, websites would not exist.
2. Mobile Apps
Apps on your phone, like TikTok, Messenger, or Spotify, are programs built with code. Developers use coding languages like Java or Swift to create apps that understand your actions. This includes swiping, clicking, tapping, and responding correctly.
For instance, when you scroll through TikTok, the app uses code to load new videos based on your interests. The more you watch, the better the app understands what you like—because the code runs algorithms analysing your behaviour.
3. Video Games
Games like Minecraft, Roblox, and Call of Duty run on complicated codes. Game developers understood what is coding and created the rules, characters, game environments, and interactions through programming.
For example, when you press a button to make your character jump or attack, the game code processes your action and triggers the correct response on the screen. Physics engines, graphics, sounds, and AI behaviour, all of it happen because of millions of lines of code working together.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI systems like Siri, Alexa, or ChatGPT work because programmers write code that allows machines to “learn” from data. AI coding involves feeding the system huge amounts of information and teaching it how to recognise patterns. For instance, when you ask Siri about the weather, Siri processes your voice, turns it into data, looks for the answer online, and replies—all because of well-written code.
5. E-Commerce and Online Shopping
When you buy something online, understanding what is coding can help manage the entire process—searching for products, adding them to the cart, applying discounts, and securing your payment. Platforms like Amazon use code not only to run the website but also to recommend products based on what you’ve viewed or bought before. These recommendations run on complex algorithms coded by developers.
6. Healthcare
Health and social care systems use software programs to track patient records, run medical tests, and assist in diagnosing diseases. For example, coding helps create systems that scan X-rays or MRI results to detect possible health issues.
7. Finance and Online Banking
Banks use secure coding to manage your money safely. Every time you check your balance, send money or pay bills through an app, you’re relying on lines of code that ensure the system processes the correct amounts and protects your data.
How to Learn Coding with CCM
The College of Contract Management offers the course, Advanced Diploma in Web Design Year 1. In this course, you will learn the answer to what is coding and how to apply it in web design. You’ll practice using programming languages like HTML, CSS3, and JavaScript to build websites. Through coding, you’ll create interactive features, add buttons, design animations, and make websites work smoothly.
By the end of the course, you’ll understand what is coding and know how to create your own website using coding skills. You’ll be able to solve problems, fix errors, and understand how the websites you use every day work. Besides that, you will earn a diploma that certifies you are skilled and knowledgeable in web design.
With CCM, you can learn coding anytime and anywhere. With our online programme, you can join live lectures just like traditional teachings. However, if you do not have the time, you can watch recorded videos so you will not miss any class discussions.
Final Thoughts on What is Coding
Learning the answers to what is coding isn’t just about learning to type random symbols into a computer, it’s about learning to solve problems, create things, and understand how technology works. From the games you play and the apps you use to the websites you visit and even the smart devices in your home, coding powers them all.
By learning to code, you gain a valuable skill that opens doors to countless opportunities. You could build your own app, create a video game, design a website, or even develop artificial intelligence that helps people.
The College of Contract Management can give you the start in learning the answer to what is coding. We can help you learn step by step, practice what you learn, and improve your skills at your own pace. In a world full of technology, coding is your superpower. The earlier you start, the more you can create.