Learn to build,Programming.
A living set of notes and resources for getting into software — curated free books, a beginner-friendly path from first account to first job, and a place to collect the videos and references worth keeping.
Start where you are
There is no single right language or path. Pick the track that matches the work you want to do, then practice with focus and determination until the tools become second nature.
- Books — free, open collections to learn from.
- Tutorials — a step-by-step path for beginners.
- References — notes and videos worth keeping.
On this page
What these notes cover
Free programming books
A curated link to the open Free Programming Books collection covering every major language and topic.
Ziggy's tutorial path
A four-step beginner roadmap from creating a GitHub account to choosing a language track and landing the job.
Notes
A running scratchpad for programming references and lessons worth revisiting.
Videos
A place to collect the walkthroughs and talks that are worth watching more than once.
Start here
Books
- Collection of Free Programming Books
Learning path
Tutorials
Ziggys Tutorial
Section titled “Ziggys Tutorial”-
Step 1: Create a GitHub account
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Step 2: Learn a programming language of some kind
- 2. Option A: Learn Python if you want to get into machine learning, data science, or finance
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- Option B: Learn Javascript/HTML/CSS if you want to get into WebApp creation or web design.
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- Option C: Learn Bash and optionally Python if you want to get into server administration and/or automation.
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- Option D: Learn Batch/Powershell if you want to get into Windows server administration.
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- Option E: Install Unreal Engine and follow the tutorials on their site if you want to get into game dev (Unity is dying due to features presented by Unreal Engine 5 according to a few game devs I’ve talked to)
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- Option F: If what you’re aiming for isn’t one of the above, then try to find what it is you’re looking for and ask ChatGPT what steps you should take to achieve that career.
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Step 3: Hone your skills, practice focus and determination, wield the tools of your trade and become the master.
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Step 4: Profit
Some great advice that was dropped by @Ziggy9263
Scratchpad
Notes
Watch
Videos
Questions
Frequently asked
What programming language should a beginner learn first?
It depends on your goal. Learn Python for machine learning, data science, or finance; JavaScript, HTML, and CSS for web apps and web design; Bash and Python for server administration and automation; and Batch or PowerShell for Windows server administration.
Where can I find free resources to learn programming?
The Free Programming Books collection is an open, community-maintained catalog of free books, courses, and resources spanning nearly every language and topic — linked in the Books section on this page.
How do I break into game development?
Install Unreal Engine and follow the tutorials on their site. Unreal Engine 5 has become a strong choice for newcomers thanks to the features it presents for modern game development.