Okay. So I've realized that C++ as a first language, not such a good idea. But what do I do...?

Question

I'm a total newb. I find that using computer terms to describe computer terms is dizzying and very confusing. But i'm not a quitter. I realize I don't have alot of skills, and i'd settle for just making something artisitc. I love color, animation, and cool effects.
In a crude mannor, Computer Bling. Something to go ooo, ahh, and cool.

I suppose I just need something relatively easy and entertaining before I have the umph and skills to contribute.

Got any ideas?

To Csanon: I really appreciate all the correct information you've given me! :D I went to your profile and started reading your answers. And it's like you said, a book is the best possible way to learn programming. Don't worry though, I'm an artist so i'll love flash, but I'm also in AP Calculus. So the math (almost puzzle like) aspect of programming is very interesting! I'm just struggling with computer vocab. right now.

Thanks for your help. :)

Answer 1

Learn some form of BASIC. BASIC is the BEGINNER'S All-purpose Symbolic Instructions Code. Visual BASIC.NET is the latest version.

Answer 2

"i'd settle for just making something artisitc. I love color, animation, and cool effects.
In a crude mannor, Computer Bling. Something to go ooo, ahh, and cool."
If that's the case, you may not actually be interested in programming, or at least not general programming.

There's two paths I would suggest. The first is graphics tools, because maybe you just want to draw and make things. Look into photoshop, illustrator, 3d modeling, 3ds max, maya, blender.

The second path is to go for design work that isn't heavy on programming. Look into web development. You'll be required to learn HTML and CSS, the two technologies to design a webpage. But with just those two, you'll be able to create nice looking websites anyone can appreciate.

Also look at Flash. If you're looking for computer "bling", that's one popular direction. It has an easy to learn programming language that you can use to create all sorts of interesting flash programs. You'll probably love it.

If you decide to stick on the C++ path, I really recommend getting a good book. Don't expect to be making bling with it though. http://accu.org/index.php/book_reviews?url=search.xqy?field=subject&term=beginner's+c%2b%2b

Answer 3

Personally, I'd reccomend Flash. You can create amazing animations, movies, and illustrations using flash, without necessarily learning actionscript. There are tons of tutorials all over the net, I'll google for a while and see if I can find some for you. You'll need to download and install Adobe Flash (which is a trial version).

EDIT: I posted two sites below that give great tutorials on how to get started. Enjoy ;-)

Answer 4

Look for Visual C++ its harder but more colored and full of effects,
and as you said you"re not a quitter so go for it and be a man you can get help on the net and there is lots of books about it its not that hard to learn it

Answer 5

Machine language is not my favorite thing to play with. I'd rather use the software developed by it. Like Adobe Photoshop. Get good at that and you can find people in advertsing, printing, and design that will pay for those skills.

Answer 6

I'd suggest searching for some source code or a cool application on the web. Then you can look at the code behind it and learn how things work.

Answer 7

nothin is easy as far as development goes..if u want fun then just watch what others have made with hardwork.else be ready to achieve the task of developing them urself..
go for flash and HTML they are good and easier as compared to others....then learn dreamweaver,CSS
and then u may become a website designer(wow!)
and remember all skills are not inborn,they are developed!

Answer 8

You can try to learn Visual Basic. At first I also learned C++. But i've changed to Visual Basic. Its cool and easier for me to solve any programming matter, more colorful, etc. We also can use it in Microsoft Excel/Word.

Answer 9

http://www.download.com/Design-Tools/2001-2016_4-0.html?tag=dir

Download some trial programs and play around with them. See if you can find something that you enjoy doing that isn't so technical that you can't stand it.

Answer 10

//////////////////////
//
// i know this is boring,
// but blingy bling doesn't
// fit in this small space
// enjoy!
//
//////////////////////

#include
using std::cout;
using std::endl;

const int OK = 0;

int main(int argc, char *argv[])
{
cout << "Hello, World!" << endl;
return OK;
}