Which introductory programming book would you recommend - "C Programming Language" by D. Ritchie or "Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs (SICP)" by X. Abelson? This is a very important question for me and I am quite confused.

As a first-year student studying at the Faculty of Computer Systems and Networks, choosing the right book can make all the difference in my learning experience. Both books have their merits and it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and goals. "C Programming Language" provides a solid foundation in procedural programming and practical applications, while "SICP" offers a more theoretical approach and introduction to functional programming.

"The Art of Programming" by Donald Knuth is not your typical programming book. It has challenged and even broken the minds of many, including ourselves. However, if you're willing to take the risk, it can greatly impact the way you think about programming. The book doesn't provide immediate practical application but instead offers a thorough correction of one's programming mindset. Despite its weightiness, it is a must-read classic alongside Ritchie's work.

A good book to read is "UNIX Software Environment" by B. Kernighan. It highlights the importance of programmers being users first and developers second. Being able to use tools effectively is crucial for achieving better results. This book specifically focuses on command line usage, which allows for automation of tasks.

If you are looking for a more practical approach, "The Art of Programming for UNIX" by Raymond would be a good choice. This book provides guidance on when to optimize, choosing between textual and binary data representation, and deciding when to hide the error stream from the user. It offers solutions to common problems that arise in programming.

It's worth noting that the principles and techniques used in UNIX are applicable to Windows as well. I primarily use Windows 7, and the knowledge I gained from these books has been extremely helpful.

Begin with Wirth's book "Algorithms and Data Structures". Next, concurrently study two more books: "The C Programming Language" by Kernighan & Ritchie and "Algorithms: Construction and Analysis" by Cormen, while practicing the examples and exercises in any programming language.

Once you have completed these books, you may proceed to the more advanced materials such as "The Art of Computer Programming" by Knuth and "Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs" by Abelson. It is important to first establish a solid foundation in the fundamentals before diving into more complex subjects.

For your first-year studies at the Faculty of Computer Systems and Networks, "Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs (SICP)" by X. Abelson would be my recommended choice for an introductory programming book.
"SICP" delves into essential programming principles, such as abstraction, recursion, and higher-order functions, which are not only fundamental for understanding computer science but also highly relevant to modern web development. As a web developer, having a deep grasp of these concepts can greatly enhance your ability to create efficient, scalable, and maintainable code for websites and web applications.

Moreover, "SICP" introduces the reader to the theoretical underpinnings of computer programs, providing insights into how programming languages work and how to approach problem-solving with a critical mindset. This knowledge is invaluable for someone entering the field of web development, as it sets the stage for understanding advanced concepts and adapting to emerging technologies in the dynamic web industry.

By choosing "SICP" as your introductory programming book, you'll not only gain practical programming skills but also develop a broader understanding of the theoretical aspects of computer programs. This balanced approach will prepare you to tackle the challenges of web development with confidence and creativity, setting you on a path towards becoming a well-rounded and adaptable web designer.

Dismissing SICP as merely theoretical overlooks its value in cultivating a strong conceptual framework. Those who can master its content often find themselves better equipped to tackle complex problems and innovate in software development.
So, if you're up for a challenge and want to think like a computer scientist, SICP might just be the book that transforms your understanding of programming.