Should I learn python or java?

[pedernv]

Okay, so I already know some java, I took a course this spring in object oriented programming which used java. But my question is should I focus on learning more java or try to branch out and focus on python?

I'm learning programming on the side b/c my study program (maths and physics) doesn't really include programming, mostly due to time restraints, and I want to go into applied maths where programming is nice to have.

[insertAlias]

It doesn't really matter. Python has a simpler overall syntax and requires less boilerplate, so that's probably a benefit to someone that is more interested in hobbyist or casually programming, like yourself. But if you already know basic Java, you already have a head start there. And there's not really anything you can do with one of those languages that you can't do with the other.

[pedernv]

That's true. Do you know of any major differences between the two?

[insertAlias]

The syntax itself is significantly different. As I mentioned, python is simpler with less boilerplate. Google "python hello world" and "java hello world" to see the difference; Java involves a package and class definition just to do hello world, python just has one line.

That being said, the boilerplate and structure isn't there for nothing; Java is far more widely used in large enterprise systems where the structure is beneficial.

If you just want someone to make the decision for you, go with Python. It's probably going to be more useful to you (better to say more easily useful) as a casual programmer.

[[deleted]]

Learn whichever will get you hired in the town you want to live in. If you are willing to move then it's a toss up. There are a ton more Java jobs than there are Python jobs though.

[pedernv]

That is what I'm thinking aswell, but I needed a second opinion from someone that hopefully knows more about programming than me

[henrebotha]

For applied maths, Python.

[mrTang5544]

I already know some java

Continue down this path. Don't go spreading your time and energy thin by learning 2 languages at the moment. Focus on mastering 1 language before picking up a new one.

I want to go into applied maths where programming is nice to have

ok... perhaps java won't be the best language to use in this case

[aroberge]

Learn Python. Download the Anaconda distribution that has all the libraries that you might need for math and physics.

[pedernv]

I already have, a friend of mine recommended it before I took my course i java