Programming Languages: Classification
What are Programming Languages?
If we approach the question from a strict definition of what programming languages are, we can say that they are a set of symbols and codes that, when used within certain norms, form the structures of networks and applications.
Programming languages can be defined as a language used to make computers and other devices perform a set of specific tasks.
In addition, there is a classification of programming languages, which we will examine and discuss further in this article. For now, let's look at some uses of programming languages.
What Are Programming Languages For?
Mastering programming languages will allow you to become a specialist in a range of tasks:
- software development, mobile and web applications in various software variants
- development of artificial intelligence applications
- development of databases needed for proper management of large corporate structures
- development of video games for various devices and platforms
- development of hardware controllers and interfaces
- script development
Types of Programming Languages According to Different Levels
Before diving deeper into specific types of programming languages, we need to establish a classification of programming languages based on the two criteria discussed today. Therefore, we will explain how programming languages are classified today. Currently, the following list of programming languages is considered.
Low-Level Programming Languages
Among programming languages of different levels, those in this group are directly related to machines. Thus, they are a "language" capable of linking hardware and software. If you are not familiar with computer science jargon, you may feel lost among all these terms and concepts.
Below are two lower-level programming languages:
- Machine language: the famous binary code using 0s and 1s. Only computers can decipher this code.
- Assembly language: this is the first approximation to a language used by humans, but which machines also understand. Depending on the type of computer or machine, converting assembly language into machine language may be required for proper operation.
High-Level Programming Languages
This type of programming language is easier for humans to understand because it is written in familiar languages, including English, Spanish, French, etc. You might wonder: do machines understand our languages? No, but we use interpreters or compilers so they can understand us.
High-Level Programming Languages: The Most Popular
There is an extensive list of programming languages for classification, but if you want to become a professional in programming, it is better to choose one of the most popular or standardized programming languages. Among them, the following stand out:
- Java: this programming language was created in 1995 by Sun Microsystems. Many websites and applications will not work without Java installed. Java is used to create interactive elements on websites. It works together with other programming codes like HTML and CSS. If you are interested in computer science, you undoubtedly should know Java.
- Go: this is a programming language developed by Google. It is designed to implement tasks that require minimal user interaction.
- Ruby on Rails: this programming language is open source and is used to develop major applications such as Twitter, Basecamp, Hulu, etc.
- Python: mainly used for developing artificial intelligence applications and applications focused on analyzing large volumes of data. Python is a cross-platform language that places great emphasis on code readability.
- C: this is the second most widely used programming language in the world. It is very convenient because it can be used on most operating systems.
- C++: this programming language allows both high-level and low-level programming. It is ideal for adapting to various projects.
- C#: also known as C Sharp, it is a development of C and C++ codes. Primarily used for object-oriented programming.
- SQL: allows interaction with a database.
- PHP: an interpreted programming language used for dynamically creating websites. It is embedded in HTML code to function.
- Swift: as part of this list of programming languages, Swift is focused on developing applications for iOS and macOS. In other words, it is part of the Apple universe.
Programming Languages: Types of Software
As a beginner in programming languages, you will need the help of some software tools to write and transmit tasks to machines. Let's look at the different types:
- Code editors: involve the use of programs where you can write code. They typically include autocomplete features to avoid syntax errors and simplify writing.
- Compilers: responsible for translating text into machine