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Java for beginners

3 replies [Last post]
- Wed, 17/08/2011 - 17:32

Hey Every one - I'm Dan
Im starting the B62 Bsc Hons in September. I told a friend who is an uber programmer that I plan to take the programmers route through the course. He introduced me to C# and set out a few tasks and it has really put me off of doing the Java module next year. I'm hoping he has forgotten what it is like to be a newbie and set me a too difficult task for a beginner. However, I plan to get a head start and try to learn the fundamentals now so hopefully by next year comes, it'll make sense. Can one recommend a Java book for complete beginners, I was planning on buying this book
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Head-First-Java-Kathy-Sierra/dp/0596009208/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313598436&sr=8-1
Any help you can offer will be much appreciated
Dan : )

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Ralph Bonsall - Wed, 17/08/2011 - 21:51

Hi Dan, don't panic.

The syntax of Java looks really arcane and complex but, when you start at the basics (that's "hello world" to all seasoned programmers who can remember that far back :-) and build on them, it's really straightforward.

There are many good books out there and head first java is one of them. I'd suggest spending some time at a decent bookstore with a reasonable section on computing. You're bound to find something that'll gel with your way of thinking.

Don't be discouraged by what seems to be a difficult or complex task. Even your friend had to start with something really simple once, no one jumps full speed into programming in any language.

So, start at the beginning and take the whole thing one bit at a time, enjoying every bit of the experience. It's well worth it :-)

Hope you do well,

 

Best regards,

Ralph

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Calum Robertson - Thu, 18/08/2011 - 15:48

 I would certainly recommend the Head First Java book as it prepares you for reading Head First Design Patterns, a book that I've found most valueable in my professional work.

I wouldn't worry too much about programming language choice, after a while you will find that you can pick up other languages easily, and Java is a great one to begin with.

If you also need a good steer with respect to doing the right thing, then I would recommend Effective Java by Joshua Bloch.

 

Best of luck

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Dan Mahon - Fri, 19/08/2011 - 08:58

Guys

Thanks for you replies! and good advice!

Calum - I will look out for Effective Java

 

Thanks Again

Dan

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