Unit 2.3: Programming Languages and Tools

Programming Basics

• Programming languages = how humans communicate with computers

• Compiled languages = translated all at once, faster

• Interpreted languages = run line-by-line, easier to debug

• High-level languages (Python, Java) = easier to use

• Low-level languages (C, Assembly) = more control, harder

Main Programming Languages

• Python = easy, used for AI, data science, web development

• Java = versatile, platform-independent, used for large applications

• C++ = fast, used for games and system software

Build vs Buy

• Build (custom):

  • Pros: fully customized, scalable

  • Cons: expensive, time-consuming, needs developers

• Buy (off-the-shelf):

  • Pros: fast, cheaper upfront, vendor support

  • Cons: limited customization, may not fit perfectly

Hybrid Approach

• Buy software and customize it

• Balanced cost, speed, and flexibility

• Still requires some developer skills

Development Tools

• IDE = workspace to write, edit, and debug code

• Compiler = converts code into machine language

• Interpreter = runs code line-by-line