First of all, anyone can learn to program a computer. Computer programming doesn’t require a high IQ and an innate proficiency in advanced mathematics. Computer programming just requires a desire to learn and the patience never to give up. Programming is a skill like swimming, dancing, and juggling. Some people are naturally better than others, but anyone can get better with constant practice. That’s why so many kids become programming wizards at such an early age. The kids aren’t necessarily brilliant; they’re just willing to put in the time to learn a new skill, and they’re not afraid of failing. If you ever dreamed about writing your own programs, rest assured that you can. Programming can be lots of fun, but it can also be frustrating, annoying, and time-consuming. That’s why Wiley publishes this particular book — to help you discover how to program a computer with the minimum amount of inconvenience and the maximum amount of enjoyment. Whether you want to pick up computer programming for fun, to start a new career, or to help make your current job easier, consider this book your personal guide through the sometimes scary — and initially intimidating — world of computer programming. After you finish this book, you can choose the best programming language to accomplish a particular task, understand the tools that programmers use, and even write your own programs for personal use or for sale to others.