Coding is everywhere, even if we don’t always see it. From the smartphone in your pocket to the websites you browse on the internet, coding forms the backbone of nearly every piece of modern technology.
It’s how humans communicate with computers, giving them instructions to perform tasks. But what is coding exactly, and how does it shape the world we live in?
What is Coding Exactly?
Coding is the process of writing instructions for computers. Computers don’t understand human language like English or Croatian; they rely on binary code—a system of 1s and 0s—to process commands.
Think of coding as a translation tool: it takes human intentions and converts them into a language that machines can execute.
But coding is more than just inputting commands; it’s about problem-solving. Coders need to think logically, break down problems into smaller steps, and come up with solutions that computers can understand and execute efficiently.
How Does Coding Work?
Coding is how humans communicate with computers. To do this, programmers use a variety of coding languages designed to instruct computers. At the base of every computer is binary code, the most fundamental language.
Binary consists of just two digits: 1 and 0. In this system, a 1 signifies “on” and a 0 signifies “off,” allowing for the creation of simple instructions that control hardware.
Though many modern coding languages exist, binary remains essential for managing the underlying hardware and electronic signals. Through binary code, programmers can control electrical signals and magnetic polarity, essentially managing the flow of electricity through circuits.
Low-Level vs. High-Level Languages
Coding languages are categorized into two groups: low-level and high-level languages.
Low-level languages
These are machine-oriented languages, like binary and assembly. They communicate directly with the computer’s hardware. Each instruction in a low-level language must be tailored to a specific processor’s capabilities.
Coders use low-level languages when they need precision control over hardware or performance, though this requires more detailed and complex coding.
High-level languages
These are user-friendly and designed to be easier for humans to understand and write. Popular programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ fall under this category.
High-level languages simplify complex tasks by handling many of the lower-level operations behind the scenes, enabling programmers to focus on solving problems rather than managing hardware.
They are more abstract, often resembling human languages, making them easier to learn and more adaptable.
Coding vs. Programming
While people often use “coding” and “programming” interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. Coding is one part of the larger process known as programming.
Coding
This is the act of writing instructions for a computer in a language it understands. Coders translate human logic into commands that machines can process, usually through a programming language that converts into binary.
Programming
Programming encompasses coding but also involves the broader tasks of designing, testing, and maintaining a digital product. It includes planning the project, debugging and testing the code, and deploying it to a system, ensuring the final software meets user needs and runs efficiently.
What Are the Most Popular Coding Languages?
Choosing the right coding language depends on what you want to achieve.
Here are some of the most widely used programming languages, their primary uses, benefits, and drawbacks:
| Language | What is this language used for? | Pros | Cons |
| C/C++ | Can be used as both a high-level and low-level coding language | Fast, powerful, and supports multiple programming paradigms | Less flexible; lacks some safety features compared to other languages |
| Java | Commonly used for web applications | Simple, secure, and object-oriented, making it highly modular and reusable | Memory-intensive and runs slower compared to some other languages |
| JavaScript | Front-end and back-end development | Fast, simple, and works well with other languages, ideal for web applications | Less secure and harder to debug efficiently than other languages |
| PHP | Primarily used for back-end development | Fast, flexible, and offers excellent database connectivity | Lower security features and lacks specialized libraries for complex tasks |
| Python | Used in back-end development, data science, and machine learning | Easy to learn with a versatile range of applications | Slower than languages like C and C++ |
| Ruby | Full-stack web development, particularly for building web apps | Fast development, adheres to web standards, and focuses on simplicity | Not as flexible as other languages when handling more complex tasks |
| SQL | Data management and manipulation | User-friendly and standardized across databases | Limited control over databases, with a more complex interface than some alternatives |
Choosing the Right Language
The best language for you depends on your goals. For speed and power in system-level programming, C/C++ are strong choices. If you’re focused on web development, JavaScript, PHP, and Ruby are great options.
Python stands out for versatility, especially in data science and AI, while SQL is essential for database management. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each language helps developers make informed decisions for their projects.
Coding Careers
Coding skills open the door to a variety of career paths, from software development to network architecture. Below are some of the top careers where coding is highly valuable:
1. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write, test, and maintain code for applications, software, and websites. These professionals are usually proficient in several coding languages and can work independently or as part of a development team.
In May 2021, computer programmers earned a median annual salary of $93,000. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 10% decline in job opportunities for this role between 2021 and 2031, partly due to automation and outsourcing trends.
2. Computer Network Architect
These experts design and build data communication networks, from local office networks to global cloud infrastructures.
Computer network architects work on both small-scale systems like office intranets and large-scale projects involving cloud computing. In May 2021, they earned a median annual salary of $120,520, and the BLS projects 4% growth in this field through 2031.
3. Software Developer
Software developers create new software products and update existing systems. They also oversee the testing process to ensure quality and functionality. Developers often collaborate with other tech professionals to deliver efficient and reliable software solutions.
In 2021, the median annual salary for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers was $120,730. With 25% projected growth between 2021 and 2031, this is one of the fastest-growing fields in tech.
4. Web Developer
Web developers design and build websites and web applications, often working closely with clients to customize the user experience. They may specialize in either front-end or back-end development, or both.
Web developers earned a median annual salary of $79,890 in May 2021, and the BLS projects 23% job growth in this field by 2031, driven by the increasing demand for online presence across industries.
5. Database Administrator
Database administrators manage and secure data systems, ensuring that information is stored safely and efficiently. They also protect databases from cyber threats and data loss. In May 2021, database administrators and architects earned a median salary of $96,710. The job market for this role is expected to grow by 9% through 2031, as data management becomes increasingly critical for businesses.
