You've likely come across the term "coding" before, whether in movies or from someone you know. But what is coding, and why is it important? Here's an essential guide from the College of Contract Management to help you understand the fundamentals of what is coding and what you can do with it.
What is Coding?
So, what is coding? Basically, coding is the process of giving instructions to a computer to make it perform specific tasks. It is a way for humans to communicate with machines. So, it is like the language we speak, like French or English; computers use programming languages to understand and execute commands. So, to simplify, what is coding? It basically tells a computer what to do step by step.
For example, imagine you are giving step-by-step directions to bake brownies. You tell them to preheat the oven for 10 minutes or beat the egg. This makes it similar to what is coding—except in coding, you’re making computers do tasks like running an app or website or doing complex calculations.
Why is Coding Important?
After understanding what is coding it is also important to know why it is important. Coding is a part of our daily lives. Whether using your smartphone app, browsing, or playing video games, coding is `behind the scenes, making everything happen. Learning how to code has become a valuable skill in today's digital landscape that can open many opportunities. But even if you’re not planning to become a professional coder, understanding what is coding and its basic principles will help you better navigate our digital world.
How Does Coding Work?
Now that you know what is coding is and its importance, it's time to know how it works. Computers are mighty machines, but they cannot think for themselves. For this reason, computers rely on humans to give instructions, which is where coding comes in. So, coders write these instructions in programming languages, depending on the task. For example:
● Java Script: Adds interactive elements to websites like buttons or animations.
● HTML is used to structure web pages.
● Python: Python is a popular language for automation, web development, and AI.
● CSS makes websites look pretty with colours, fonts, and layouts.
● Java: Often used in mobile apps, especially Android apps.
As a result, each programming language has its own set of rules, just like different languages have their own vocabulary and grammar. For this reason, coders combine these rules and commands to create everything from apps to websites to video games. Because of this, it is very important to know what is coding and understand how it works.
How to Start Learning to Code
So you're now at the point where you know what is coding, now it is time to understand how to start learning it.
Here’s how you can get started:
● YouTube Tutorials: Countless free tutorials on YouTube explaining what is coding in a way that explains in a way that is easy to follow.
● Using Apps for Beginners: Apps like Mimo, SoloLearn, and Grasshopper are specifically designed for people who want to learn what is coding on the go.
So, if you plan to start your coding career, it is best to pick one programming language and focus on it. Many people start with HTML/CSS because they are visual and allow you to build simple websites quickly. Then, once you are comfortable, you can move on to more complex languages like JavaScript and Python.
What Can You Build with Coding?
With the knowledge of what is coding, you can now learn what you can do with it. At its core, coding is a tool for creation. Once you learn how to code, you can build many things. So here are examples of the things that you can build:
● Websites: Whether it’s a personal blog, business website, or online portfolio, coding allows you to bring your ideas to life on the Internet.
● Video Games: You can start from simple 2D games to more complex 3D ones, and coding is behind every game you play.
● Automation Tools: Learning coding can help you automate repetitive tasks, saving you time and effort.
● AI, or Artificial Intelligence: If you are interested in technological developments, coding can help you start building AI and Machine Learning Tools.
● Mobile Apps: Coding can turn your app ideas into reality. You can use this to create apps for Android and iOS platforms.
Highest Paying Coding Jobs in the UK
1. DevOps Engineer
Salary: £50,000-£85,000
DevOps engineers ensure smooth operations between development and IT teams, focussing on automation and efficient workflows. Expertise in Docker, Jenkins, and AWS can result in high pay, especially in fast-growing tech sectors.
2. Software Engineers
Salary: £40,000-£70,000
Software engineers build and design applications, from mobile apps to complex software systems. Thus, expertise in languages like Python, Java, and C++ can lead to top salaries, especially in industries like finance and tech.
3. Full-Stack Developer
Salary: £40,000-£75,000+
Full-stack developers handle front-end and back-end development using languages like React, JavaScript, and Node.js. Their versatility makes them valuable in startups and tech firms.
4. Data Scientist
Salary: £45,000-£90,000+
Data scientists analyse large datasets to guide business decisions. Advanced R, SQL, and Python skills are essential, and healthcare and finance companies offer some of the highest salaries.
5. Cybersecurity Engineer
Salary: £45,000-£90,000+
Cybersecurity engineers protect companies from cyber threats. Advanced skills in Python and network security tools can lead to high salaries, particularly in industries that handle sensitive data.
6. Cloud Solutions Architect
Salary: £60,00 - £110,000+
Cloud architects design cloud systems using platforms like Azure and AWS. Their expertise is essential as more companies migrate to cloud-based solutions, making this a highly paid-role.
7. Blockchain Developer
Salary: £50,000 - £100,000+
Blockchain developers work with decentralised apps and smart contracts. Skills in Ethereum and Solidity are in high demand as blockchain continues to grow across industries.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what is coding is valuable whether you want to build or design websites and apps or understand how modern-day technology works. And the best part is that you don’t have to be a genius for coding. You'll be surprised at how much you can learn and create by taking small steps, using beginner-friendly resources, and practicing regularly.
Now that you know what is coding and the gist of what you can do with it, you can start your tech industry career with the College of Contract Management and gain the skills needed to succeed in your chosen field. We offer comprehensive courses designed to help tech enthusiasts take their first step in the tech industry or assist experienced professionals in advancing their careers. With practical and hands-on learning expert instructors, you’ll develop your coding skills quickly. Whether you are looking into learning web development or data science, we provide courses that will serve as your foundation as your career grows.
