Over the last decade or two, learning a programming language is no longer a secondary skill but a necessity for working in the IT industry. In fact, most IT jobs require a solid understanding of the top programming languages.
So, if you’re looking to advance in the software industry, or you’re just starting, choosing the right programming language is key.
After all, there are so many parameters to consider — the difficulty level, the knowledge you already possess, aligning your learning with your existing coding skills, even the project management methodologies (Agile, Scrum, Lean, Waterfall, etc.) may affect your decision.
And that’s why we’ve made a list of the most popular programming languages that will be in demand in 2021. Learning these languages will significantly improve your chances of bagging that dream IT job!
1. Python
Python is a high-level programming language that is at the top of the list of languages that every developer should learn in 2021. It is an easy-to-learn, clean, and well-structured coding language powerful enough to build robust web and desktop applications. Python also finds application in creating GUI-based desktop applications, data science, machine learning, and network servers.
With a massive collection of open-source libraries, frameworks, and modules, Python allows you to build any project quickly, without compromising quality.
Some of the main features of Python include:
- A high-level, portable, and integrated language
- GUI programming support
- Object-oriented language (OOL)
- Free and open source
- High-level, built-in data structures
- Easy to learn syntax to emphasise readability
- Low program maintenance
- Program modularity and code reusability
2. Kotlin
Kotlin is a cross-platform, general-purpose programming language. Ever since Android announced Kotlin as its first language, it has become increasingly popular, offering every new feature that developers are looking for. Effortlessly integrating with OOP and functional programming features, Kotlin makes the process of Android development not only faster but also more enjoyable.
One of the primary reasons why Kotlin is the more preferred coding language is because of its strong tooling support. In fact, this has led to several Java-based applications like Coursera and Pinterest to move to Kotlin.
Some of the main features of Kotlin include:
- Concise, easy-to-learn, open-source code
- No adoption-related barriers
- Null safety
- Data classes and extensions
- Operator overloading
- JavaScript transpilation
3. JavaScript/TypeScript
Javascript, also popularly known as NodeJS, is one of the best programming languages for developers who write code on both the server side and the client side. Because JavaScript is compatible with many other coding languages, creating animations, managing multimedia, and setting up buttons becomes easier.
Some famous companies that rely heavily on JavaScript include Netflix, PayPal, and Uber. By using NodeJS, businesses can create fast, secure, and dynamic web pages. In fact, according to a report that was shared by HackerRank, JavaScript is the top programming language that IT companies look for in a potential candidate.
TypeScript, on the other hand, is a superset of JavaScript. It is an OOP-based language that was created to extend the capabilities of JavaScript. TypeScript is commonly used to build larger applications with a strict syntax.
Some of the main features of JavaScript include:
- Client-edge technology that uses object-centered language
- Ability to perform in-built functions
- Interpreter centered
- Platform independent
- Lightweight scripting language
4. Go
Go is a relatively new system-level programming language that blends the best aspect of object-oriented styles with functional programming. Owing to its focused vocabulary and simple scoping rules, Go is one of the fastest-growing languages on GitHub. In fact, some say that it may even replace languages like Java and C++.
Because Go is an open-source language, building simple, reliable, and efficient software is incredibly easy. Go also generates binaries for applications, which means that you don’t have to install any runtimes, in turn, easing the task of deploying applications across thousands of installations.
Some of the main features of Go include:
- Simple and easy-to-understand language
- A powerful standard library that is distributed as packages
- Package management and support using a set of easy commands
- Static typing
- Concurrency and testing support
5. Swift
Swift, developed by Apple, is a general-purpose compiled programming language. Known for it’s simple and cohesive syntax, Swift is fast, secure, and easy to learn. Because the programming language is super versatile and practical, it has quickly replaced Objective-C as the primary programming language for Apple-related applications. In fact, out of the 110 top applications on the Apple app store, 42% of the apps are using Swift.
Even if you have little to no experience with coding, you can still use Swift Playgrounds to learn the programming language and experiment with complex codes. This opens up several new opportunities for programmers, giving them a chance to make it in the app development world.
Some of the main features of Swift include:
- Fast and concise iteration
- Closures that are unified with function pointers
- Structs to support methods, protocols, and extensions
- Powerful built-in error handling
- Advanced control flow with repeat, do, defer, and guard keywords
To sum it up, knowing even one of the above programming languages will ensure better career growth and open the door to new opportunities in the IT industry.
