I've never programmed before, but I want to learn. What's the most effective way to get started, and where do I begin?

Getting started with programming is like building a new skill, it requires dedication, patience, and practice. First, choose a programming language that interests you, such as Python, JavaScript, or HTML/CSS. Then, find online resources like Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp, or Coursera that offer interactive coding lessons and exercises. Start with the basics, such as variables, data types, and control structures, and gradually move on to more advanced topics.

Join online communities like Reddit's r/learnprogramming or Stack Overflow to connect with other programmers, get help with problems, and learn from their experiences. Remember, programming is a journey, and it's okay to make mistakes – it's all part of the learning process.

I'd recommend starting by deciding whether you're interested in frontend or backend development.

Frontend is all about the user-facing aspects of a website, including design, visuals, and user interaction. It's the "client-side" of the equation, where you get to work on the stuff that users see and interact with.

Backend, on the other hand, is the "server-side" of the equation, where you work on the behind-the-scenes stuff that users don't see, like database management and API integration. As a backend developer, you'll be responsible for building the infrastructure that powers the frontend.

Regardless of which path you choose, you'll need to have a solid grasp of HTML and CSS. HTML is the backbone of any website, providing the structure and organization, while CSS is used to style and layout the content. With a good foundation in HTML and CSS, you can build simple websites with text-based content.

If you want to take it to the next level, you'll need to learn a programming language. JavaScript is a great place to start, as it's the most popular and accessible language out there. You can use it to create interactive elements, like hover effects and animations, and even build complex web applications.

If you're interested in backend development, PHP is a great language to learn. It's one of the most popular languages used in backend development, and it's relatively easy to pick up.

My advice is to try out some free coding resources, like online tutorials and coding challenges, before committing to a full-fledged development program. That way, you can get a feel for whether development is really for you. And if you find that you're not enjoying it, you can always pivot and try something else.

As a dev, you gotta master the art of algorithmic thinking, breaking down complex problems into actionable steps. Before you start coding, define your programming persona - are you a web dev, Android dev, or Windows app dev? Get familiar with the language landscape, starting with C and then moving on to popular tongues in your chosen domain. Dive into problem-solving platforms like Code Abbey to get your hands dirty.

Once you've got a solid grasp of the language, explore popular libraries and frameworks, especially if you're going for JavaScript. Don't forget to study build systems and version control. The key to leveling up your coding skills is consistent practice - it's all about solving problems and iterating on your solutions.