Which Programming Language Should You Learn Next? A Practical Guide

Who says your cat can't code?

Recently I read an interesting Hacker News article that argued everyone should learn multiple programming languages even if they don’t use them immediately, and I completely agree.

Each language excels in certain domains, and knowing several gives you the freedom to pick the right tool for faster results.

So which language should you learn? Which one will bring you the greatest benefit?

Below is a compiled list of the top‑10 programming languages based on the Stack Overflow annual developer survey and my own experience, intended to spark fresh ideas for developers.

Friendly reminder: even if a new language looks tempting, don’t try to learn too many at once. Pick one, master it, then move on to the next.

Java

Even after years of using Java, there’s still a lot to learn. In 2019 my goal was to focus on the latest Java releases (JDK 9‑12). If you share this goal, consider Udemy’s “Complete Java MasterClass” or free resources via search engines and video sites.

JavaScript

Whether you believe it or not, JavaScript is the #1 language for the web. Frameworks like jQuery, Angular, and React have made it even more popular. Since we can’t escape the web, learning JavaScript early is essential.

It’s also the primary language for client‑side validation, so it should be on your learning list.

Python

Python has overtaken Java in academia and is now the most taught language in universities.

It’s a powerful scripting language with a massive ecosystem of modules. For example, I wrote a Python script in ten minutes to monitor UDP traffic on Linux.

If you want to learn Python, Pluralsight’s “Python Fundamentals” is a solid choice (requires a subscription, but a free trial is available).

Kotlin

If you’re considering Android app development, Kotlin is the language to learn this year and is poised to become the next big thing in Android.

Although Java remains my primary language, Kotlin now enjoys native support in IDEs like IntelliJ IDEA and Android Studio.

Golang

Go is another language worth learning this year. It’s not yet mainstream and can be challenging, but its usage is expected to grow after 2019.

There are fewer Go developers now, so persisting can lead to high salaries, especially if you aim to build frameworks or similar projects.

C#

If you’re interested in PC or web GUI development, C# is a great option. It’s the primary language for the .NET framework and is heavily used in PC and console game development.

Check out Udemy’s “Learn to Code by Making Games – Complete C# Unity Developer” which has attracted over 200,000 students.

Swift

If you want to develop iOS apps for iPhone and iPad, you should seriously consider learning Swift, which has replaced Objective‑C as the preferred iOS language. Start with iOS 11 and Swift 4 courses.

Rust

Honestly, I’m not very familiar with Rust, but it won the “Most Loved Programming Language” award in the Stack Overflow survey, indicating it’s worth learning.

There aren’t many free Rust courses, but “Rust For Undergrads” is a good starting point.

PHP

If you think PHP is dead, you’re wrong. It remains active and robust, powering about 50% of all websites worldwide, making it a solid choice for newcomers.

C / C++

C and C++ are evergreen languages that many learn in school. If you’re doing detailed, complex work with C++, a comprehensive online course like “C++: From Beginner to Expert” can prepare you for industry roles.

Even if you only learn one language, it doesn’t have to be the one you use daily; diversifying can greatly benefit your career development.

Most importantly: set goals, stay consistent, and enjoy the learning journey!