The 8 Most In-Demand Programming Languages of 2016

The article argues that software demand is creating room for people without a traditional computer science background to learn to code. It then compares eight languages from 2016 by what they do, how hard they are to learn, and why employers wanted them.

Reading notes

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• SQL retrieves data from databases and is used to combine information into reports.
• SQL has a simple syntax and can be learned quickly, especially by people already familiar with Excel.
• Java runs on many kinds of computers, supports applications and Android apps, and is used in large systems that need scale and maintenance.
• Python is readable, easier to learn than Java or C++, and is used for web and desktop applications as well as data analysis.
• JavaScript powers interactive web effects, user interfaces, API-driven features, validation, and games.
• JavaScript is the native language of web browsers and has libraries for many tasks.
• C# is a Microsoft language used for software, Windows applications, games, and native mobile apps.
• C# is presented as friendlier for beginners than Java and supported by Visual Studio.
• C++ is used for performance-heavy work, including graphics, data handling, and device control.
• C++ is described as difficult to learn but valued for reliability and performance.
• PHP is a server-side scripting language commonly paired with SQL databases.
• PHP is used for dynamic pages, form data, cookies, database changes, and large sites like Facebook and WordPress.
• Ruby on Rails is a web framework built in Ruby for getting websites running quickly and maintainably.
• Ruby on Rails is presented as beginner-friendly and used by startups and large companies alike.