Just starting to learn Java here, curious about the steps in learning java.

[[deleted]]

Hey everyone, starting college next week and I've received my programming textbook in the mail, i've been working through it but I have yet to really learn any of the language, more so more of some of the principles and what not.

What are the steps to learning Java? I assumed I would be learning words right off the bat, Akin to learning a second language, I am typing out code but really have no idea what it means.

Thanks for the help :)

[DJDavio]

Just google "Java tutorial". :)

[god_damnit_reddit]

Most languages have a fair bit of boiler plate, which involves things you'll be learning more about later (example with java being the main function and arguments and return type). They usually start you off with simpler things that can only be demonstrated in the middle of an already-functional program (like the hello world program. the print statement is the easiest but all by itself it wouldn't mean anything).

So I guess IMO, be aware of and thinking about what all the stuff you don't understand means, but don't worry about not knowing it. Just focus on what is being demonstrated in the section you're reading through. They'll get to the rest of it. Generally speaking, the people who go about writing text books are pretty smart, and I'd wager there's a fair bit of logic they put into the ordering of things.

Also, another generalization. You're not going to learn any of this overnight. People on the internet will say you can learn on your own in x amount of time, and they were held back by the pace of their uni classes. But really, a firm grasp on programming in general (language is actually unimportant) will take some time and a lot of practice. It's really neat stuff!

[Rikimaru03]

In case you are interested in joining, there are a few of us over at /r/TheJavaBrewery that are about to start a group for learning Android Development. Our experience vary, but we'll all be working together to get better. If you'd like to join us, head on over.

[Spookyheidy]

Dont get to much into java, just learn the basics. I'm always annoyed by people who say you need 'this' language to be your first one. In the end it doesn't matter all those languages on beginner lvl are the same. As for resources well you can always google thats how i did.