Computer Programming: Ten Skills Needed for Success

As a Technical Writer currently taking on languages like Microsoft Visual C# and XML, I have noticed that there are skills essential to language mastery. Computer programming is dynamic today in ways unlike before, without a doubt. So, for those of you who are currently trying to expand your knowledge base with a new language or two, or you are brushing up on details of a computer language or two that you already know, here are some tips to keep in mind as you scale the mountain of computer programming:

One. Basic Logical skills. The most common forms of basic logic and decision making within programming are the do-while and if-then-else approaches. Here, the programmer needs to consider the choices available within the program in terms of direction and what the application should do at that particular moment.

Two. Top-Down Thinking skills. Generally, a computer system is comprised of different “sub” systems so a programmer needs to have some design or top-down thinking skills to see the program from the larger picture. Have I created modules or sub-systems that properly divide the system for optimum performance? Just like in Economics you have micro and macro economics, so it is with programming.

Three. Object-Oriented Language Thinking skills. Many or most of today’s languages are Object-Oriented, meaning that you are working WITHIN the framework of inheritance and polymorphism, among others. You can increase an application’s performance by appropriately accessing and using the inherent powers of the languages by working with wisely selected classes, methods, properties and things of these kinds.

Four. Attention to detail. Each programming language has detailed reference and keyword-type aspects that must be understood. For you to include a class or method, you need to code these items correctly, with the right syntax.

Five. Ability to read specifications. Programmers today often work with architects who do the actual system design and then the programmer must code according to these specifications. This is a challenging task because the programmer must be able to interpret the specs and then code so that the parameters given are followed and finally implemented.

Six. Ability to test. Most programmers today see themselves as coders and nothing more. A good programmer will always be a great asset to a software company if he or she can test the code written so that different data is presented and the code handles it correctly. Some programmers think testing is only for Quality Assurance, but sometimes programmers can see further into the application, and so their testing can actually be even more critical to the overall success of the application.

Seven. Dedication to documentation. Just like testing, many programmers think that coding is all that matters but really it helps the company when a programmer leaves nice comments in his or her code for future programmers. This way, as new releases are designed, others who will recode a module or application will be able to see into what was previously done.

Eight. Good business sense. Sometimes it is hard for us to extract ourselves from coding and then see the “big picture”. This is important. All programming ultimately serves a larger purpose where the application is going to help a customer or client in some way. It is good for programmers to subscribe to a blog or magazine that discusses market trends and needs for the market that he or she is serving.

Nine. Patience. This is not a technical skill, but a skill nonetheless that will take a programmer far. Coding is not easy, and so the more patience a programmer cultivates, the greater the success he or she will experience.

Ten. Perseverance. Along with patience, the skill and personal trait of perseverance is very important for programming success. Sometimes, many, many compiles will have to transpire before all bugs and errors are overcome and eliminated. Stay the course and stay focused with perseverance.

What Is Source Code?

Source code refers to the programming language one uses to write a program. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of forms of source code. Some computer languages include C++, Java, and Unix. Often people refer to source code of websites, which means programming conducted in HTML and possibly Java.

In most Internet browsers, one has the option of viewing an Internet page in source code format. This is actually quite helpful for people learning to program in HTML. One can look at source code and figure out how to do a table, construct a list, or make a hyperlink. People often use source code from websites they like to achieve a similar look to a page they are constructing.

While it is fine to use source code to create different things like tables, columns or separations on a website, it is important not to copy graphics that come from source code or other websites, unless they are free to use. This would come under the heading of Internet plagiarism, and could lead to problems for one’s new website. Thus source code can be used to learn how to do something, but should never completely copy text or pictures.

In HTML, source code can be differentiated from text and pictures, as code instructions will almost always initiate in < > format. If one views the source code of this page, one will note that the above bold word of "views" is surrounded by code. This is because HTML requires this information in source code in order to present the word in bold format.

When viewing the source code, it may be noted that all hyperlinks are surrounded by source code instructions. Each paragraph begins and ends with

, meaning "paragraph." In order to italicize a word, the word is put between and . Often the "/" is taken to mean one is ending a particular set of instructions.

Note that many word processing programs may not be appropriate for writing HTML source code. Many do not recognize some of the symbols used, like quotation marks. Often one can obtain free programs, which allow the user to write source code that is easy to upload to an Internet site. As well, many website programming programs exist for purchase and may eliminate the need to know a lot of source code.

Why Major in Computer Programming?

Since their initiation a few decades ago, computers have come a long way. With advancements in technology, new educational opportunities as well as careers to go with them have come into being. Surely it can safely be said that the world is one which is widely shaped by the presence of computers. In fact, there are few facets of life that go unaffected by computer technology. However, computers, like any other kind of technology, need repair and maintenance because of their inherent flaws. Among other computer-related vocations, the world needs people that are computer savvy to receive a major in computer programming. With an education in this field, you can ease the stress of people who are less computer-literate and make the lives of those around you less hectic.

There are many subcategories of computer training. The path you choose as you pursue a major in computer programming can determine what specific field you will be eligible to enter. Computer programming is a category that appears to be a flourishing field with no diminishing factors in sight. As a computer programmer, you would develop, test and maintain programs that allow computers to function the way they do. In your educational pursuits, you would learn all about creating new languages for computers to be able to complete increasingly complicated tasks. With your degree in computer programming, you can begin down the path to creating intuitive and ground-breaking technological inventions. What an exciting prospect!

The most common employers of people with a major in computer programming are software development companies. These can be anything from basic software and games to educational packages and operating systems. People who have a strong technical background and ability to understand and make the desires of clients a reality are always in demand. Graduates with a major in computer programming can look forward to working with fast-paced technological companies like multimedia firms, wireless applications and cyber security. Your major will not only turn into a satisfying career for yourself, but one that allows you to help others be more productive.

If you are a student who has as interest in math, the sciences and an aptitude for problem solving with your analytical skills, a major in computer programming could be utterly perfect for you. The stability of a career in this field is another obvious benefit. Computers, as they have become integrated into everything you do on a daily basis, are clearly not going anywhere. You might select an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in computer programming. Some employers are looking for a certain level of education while others put a higher focus on experience.

Top 10 Computer Programming Jobs & Career Pathways

1)Design and build security software. In this case, what is mostly focused on is the concept of building software to give computer users added security when browsing the internet. This is one of the most common computer programming jobs and career pathways that graduates choose to take.

2)Design and build computer interfaces. This is another common pursuit after graduation, one that entails working with a company on a variety of scales. Everything from government and banking to the health care industry could be your focus.

3)Devise new ways to use computers. Innovation in the world of technology as we know it is up to computer programmers who have completed advanced graduate work.

4)Develop ways to solve computer problems. No initial design in computing is without flaws. This computer programming career pathway requires the knowledge of algorithms to solve intense computational problems.

5)Hold a position at a research and development laboratory. This is an option after completing graduate work and is the location where new inventions are turned out daily in the category of computer programming.

6)Plan and manage organization technology. This is one of the computer programming jobs and career pathways that aim to educate students in information technology.

7)Design and develop games. The entertainment category is extensive when it comes to computer programming. Your career could involve creating and testing video games and educational games for children.

8)Develop applications. People who are not computer savvy take the presence of useful applications for granted. As a programmer, you could follow one of the computer programming jobs and career pathways that lead to the development of applications for everyday use.

9)Engineer software or hardware. The programs and operating systems that people buy every day are created by computer programmers. You could choose to take this path once you graduate. Usually a bachelor’s degree is the level of education required here.

10)Program web-based computer programs. Using a variety of tools and technologies, this computer programming job allows you to convert your problem-solving skills into logical programming.

The Future Of Computer Programming

When it comes to the world of computer programming, it would be safe to say that the future is bright. And why is that so? Gone are the days when only the rich and powerful have the tools to educate themselves. Nowadays, a single household possesses at least one computer. There are a lot of brilliant minds out there who are constantly on their toes to bring about the latest developments in computer programming.

To make their dream a reality, it is necessary to begin where all computer programmers begin-at grade school. Computer programming is now being introduced to the youngest minds. Educational materials that are targeting languages in programming and also development tools are now being introduced in most schools’ curriculums.

But this is still an ongoing vision. Somewhere in the near future, computer programming (not just computer usage) will be just another ordinary subject such as writing, reading or arithmetic. A study shows that this vision is slowly unfolding as teenagers are responding positively to programming exercises and are even able to control several virtual worlds in just a few days.

Mass computer programming literacy is a work in progress. When even the most simple citizen is able to explain the designs of software with ease, then creativity will abound and so with productivity. But what is computer programming in the future? Is it more on art or engineering? Or both?

One renowned computer architect named Gordon Morrison states that computer programming is recently in a form of art. When this is so, it means that the current knowledge in programming is disorganized and changeable. He proposes further that in changing programming into engineering (which is a more precise form) then the future of programming will become more stable.

Perhaps, one good way to predict the future of programming is by looking at the available jobs for computer programmers these days. Consider these career options: a single system programmer is able to install and maintain mainframe ops systems, management software for databases, and also networks for communications. They can also become compilers or utility programmers.

Another good way to foretell what is in store for computer programming is to look at the television and some science fiction films that are being produced lately. In the past, the TV series called The New Adventures of Wonder Woman showed talking computers and robots which were causes of awe. Today, those are not impossibilities.

The use of hardware has progressed tremendously over the past years and software development is tailing behind. Software processes are still on the if-and-then phase and users are wondering whether this will really change. Although there are predictions that programming languages would soon be on its fifth generation (where the recent languages would become obsolete), still, this visualization still hasn’t pushed through. Which leads others to ask, has software development reached its peak? Will there be no more developments? Is this as far as it could go?

Sure, there are modernizations here and there when it comes to new languages but they remain at a certain phase. It doesn’t go a notch higher. Perhaps, software would be the technological limit that would cap computer programming advancement. But only perhaps.There are always minds out there that constantly grind to provide the latest in programming innovation.

COBOL Sub Programming Strategy

Software shops that employ COBOL but do not employ object-oriented COBOL development techniques are required to produce considerable amounts of COBOL source code. For each function COBOL code must be edited, created, maintained, and compiled for usage.

In the early to mid seventies I discovered a way to subrogate monolithic COBOL code segments into COBOL sub programs. First I had to understand that each sub program needed to be linked with the ncal, let and list options so they would reside the Load Partition Data Set (LPDS) properly. These sub programs may be used in an unlimited number of end user COBOL applications. Their existence lends itself to re usability of COBOL code.

The ncal option told the linkage editor that this program was never to be called as you would call a stand alone COBOL program. The let option told the linkage editor that external reference errors were permitted in this particular scenario. The list object produced the symbols list of the subprogram which would be require to debug the resulting application.

Without this approach all COBOL source code is compiled and the compiled results would be stored in an Object Partitioned Data Set (OPDS). The resulting objects would then be used as input to the linkage editor. The Load Partitioned Data Set (LPDS) is still required to house the end resulting executable COBOL code. This approach eliminated the need for an Object Partitioned Data Set (OPDS).

The second revelation was that the master or driver program which would be responsible for accessing the associated sub program source codes. This was accomplished via a call statement in the procedure division. Also any associated data as well as the calling protocol structure would be defined in the linkage section of the COBOL program. The linkage section allows for successful passing of data to and from the main program.

This driver program serves the function of a digital traffic cop for the application. When it is prepared for execution all external references (calls to sub programs) are resolved and errors other than warnings are not tolerated. Those external references are the aforementioned members of the Load Partitioned Data Set (LPDS). Upon successful linkage editing of the main and sub programs the end resulting program is ready for production.

What is C programming language?

C is a general-purpose computer programming language developed in 1972 by Dennis Ritchie at the Bell Telephone Laboratories for use with the Unix operating system.

Although C was designed for implementing system software, it is also widely used for developing portable application software.

C is one of the most popular programming languages and there are very few computer architectures for which a C compiler does not exist. C has greatly influenced many other popular programming languages, most notably C++, which originally began as an extension to C.


Design
C is an imperative systems implementation language. It was designed to be compiled using a relatively straightforward compiler, to provide low-level access to memory, to provide language constructs that map efficiently to machine instructions, and to require minimal run-time support. C was therefore useful for many applications that had formerly been coded in assembly language.

Despite its low-level capabilities, the language was designed to encourage machine-independent programming. A standards-compliant and portably written C program can be compiled for a very wide variety of computer platforms and operating systems with little or no change to its source code. The language has become available on a very wide range of platforms, from embedded microcontrollers to supercomputers.

Minimalism
C's design is tied to its intended use as a portable systems implementation language. It provides simple, direct access to any addressable object , and its source-code expressions can be translated in a straightforward manner to primitive machine operations in the executable code. Some early C compilers were comfortably implemented on PDP-11 processors having only 16 address bits. C compilers for several common 8-bit platforms have been implemented as well.


Characteristics
Like most imperative languages in the ALGOL tradition, C has facilities for structured programming and allows lexical variable scope and recursion, while a static type system prevents many unintended operations. In C, all executable code is contained within functions. Function parameters are always passed by value. Pass-by-reference is simulated in C by explicitly passing pointer values. Heterogeneous aggregate data types (struct) allow related data elements to be combined and manipulated as a unit. C program source text is free-format, using the semicolon as a statement terminator .

C also exhibits the following more specific characteristics:

variables may be hidden in nested blocks
partially weak typing; for instance, characters can be used as integers
low-level access to computer memory by converting machine addresses to typed pointers
function and data pointers supporting ad hoc run-time polymorphism
array indexing as a secondary notion, defined in terms of pointer arithmetic
a preprocessor for macro definition, source code file inclusion, and conditional compilation
complex functionality such as I/O, string manipulation, and mathematical functions consistently delegated to library routines
A relatively small set of reserved keywords
A lexical structure that resembles B more than ALGOL, for example:
{ ... } rather than either of ALGOL 60's begin ... end or ALGOL 68's ( ... )
= is used for assignment (copying), like Fortran, rather than ALGOL's :=
== is used to test for equality (rather than .EQ. in Fortran, or = in BASIC and ALGOL)
Logical "and" and "or" are represented with && and || in place of ALGOL's and ; note that the doubled-up operators will never evaluate the right operand if the result can be determined from the left alone (this is called short-circuit evaluation), and are semantically distinct from the bit-wise operators & and |
However Unix Version 6 & 7 versions of C indeed did use ALGOL's and ASCII operators, but for determining the infimum and supremum respectively.
a large number of compound operators, such as +=, ++, etc. (Equivalent to ALGOL 68's +:= and +:=1 operators)

Absent features
The relatively low-level nature of the language affords the programmer close control over what the computer does, while allowing special tailoring and aggressive optimization for a particular platform. This allows the code to run efficiently on very limited hardware, such as embedded systems.

C does not have some features that are available in some other programming languages:

No nested function definitions
No direct assignment of arrays or strings (copying can be done via standard functions; assignment of objects having struct or union type is supported)
No automatic garbage collection
No requirement for bounds checking of arrays
No operations on whole arrays
No syntax for ranges, such as the A..B notation used in several languages
Prior to C99, no separate Boolean type (zero/nonzero is used instead)
No formal closures or functions as parameters (only function and variable pointers)
No generators or coroutines; intra-thread control flow consists of nested function calls, except for the use of the longjmp or setcontext library functions
No exception handling; standard library functions signify error conditions with the global errno variable and/or special return values, and library functions provide non-local gotos
Only rudimentary support for modular programming
No compile-time polymorphism in the form of function or operator overloading
Very limited support for object-oriented programming with regard to polymorphism and inheritance
Limited support for encapsulation
No native support for multithreading and networking
No standard libraries for computer graphics and several other application programming needs
A number of these features are available as extensions in some compilers, or are provided in some operating environments (e.g., POSIX), or are supplied by third-party libraries, or can be simulated by adopting certain coding disciplines.

Undefined behavior
Many operations in C that have undefined behavior are not required to be diagnosed at compile time. In the case of C, "undefined behavior" means that the exact behavior which arises is not specified by the standard, and exactly what will happen does not have to be documented by the C implementation. A famous, although misleading, expression in the newsgroups comp.std.c and comp.lang.c is that the program could cause "demons to fly out of your nose". Sometimes in practice what happens for an instance of undefined behavior is a bug that is hard to track down and which may corrupt the contents of memory. Sometimes a particular compiler generates reasonable and well-behaved actions that are completely different from those that would be obtained using a different C compiler. The reason some behavior has been left undefined is to allow compilers for a wide variety of instruction set architectures to generate more efficient executable code for well-defined behavior, which was deemed important for C's primary role as a systems implementation language; thus C makes it the programmer's responsibility to avoid undefined behavior, possibly using tools to find parts of a program whose behavior is undefined. Examples of undefined behavior are:

*accessing outside the bounds of an array
*overflowing a signed integer
*reaching the end of a non-void function without finding a return statement, when the return value is used
*reading the value of a variable before initializing it

These operations are all programming errors that could occur using many programming languages; C draws criticism because its standard explicitly identifies numerous cases of undefined behavior, including some where the behavior could have been made well defined, and does not specify any run-time error handling mechanism.

Invoking fflush() on a stream opened for input is an example of a different kind of undefined behavior, not necessarily a programming error but a case for which some conforming implementations may provide well-defined, useful semantics as an allowed extension. Use of such nonstandard extensions generally limits software portability.

Related languages in C

C has directly or indirectly influenced many later languages such as Java, Perl, PHP, JavaScript, LPC, C# and Unix's C Shell. The most pervasive influence has been syntactical: all of the languages mentioned combine the statement and expression syntax of C with type systems, data models and/or large-scale program structures that differ from those of C, sometimes radically.

When object-oriented languages became popular, C++ and Objective-C were two different extensions of C that provided object-oriented capabilities. Both languages were originally implemented as source-to-source compilers -- source code was translated into C, and then compiled with a C compiler.

Bjarne Stroustrup devised the C++ programming language as one approach to providing object-oriented functionality with C-like syntax. C++ adds greater typing strength, scoping and other tools useful in object-oriented programming and permits generic programming via templates. Nearly a superset of C, C++ now supports most of C, with a few exceptions .

Unlike C++, which maintains nearly complete backwards compatibility with C, the D language makes a clean break with C while maintaining the same general syntax. It abandons a number of features of C which Walter Bright considered undesirable, including the C preprocessor and trigraphs. Some, but not all, of D's extensions to C overlap with those of C++.

Objective-C was originally a very "thin" layer on top of, and remains a strict superset of, C that permits object-oriented programming using a hybrid dynamic/static typing paradigm. Objective-C derives its syntax from both C and Smalltalk: syntax that involves preprocessing, expressions, function declarations and function calls is inherited from C, while the syntax for object-oriented features was originally taken from Smalltalk.

Limbo is a language developed by the same team at Bell Labs that was responsible for C and Unix, and while retaining some of the syntax and the general style, introduced garbage collection, CSP based concurrency and other major innovations.

Python has a different sort of C heritage. While the syntax and semantics of Python are radically different from C, the most widely used Python implementation, CPython, is an open source C program. This allows C users to extend Python with C, or embed Python into C programs. This close relationship is one of the key factors leading to Python's success as a general-use dynamic language.

Perl is another example of a popular programming language rooted in C. However, unlike Python, Perl's syntax does closely follow C syntax. The standard Perl implementation is written in C and supports extensions written in C.