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Java for Absolute Beginners

4.6 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 9,443 ratings
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Nick H

Java for Absolute Beginners is designed for those who have no previous experience in computer programming/coding. This course aims to teach programming at a steady pace with straightforward explanations so that you are not left with a thousand questions. Topics are explained in plain English and with the necessary depth, enabling you to piece everything together with ease.

This course includes:

Read more

Java for Absolute Beginners is designed for those who have no previous experience in computer programming/coding. This course aims to teach programming at a steady pace with straightforward explanations so that you are not left with a thousand questions. Topics are explained in plain English and with the necessary depth, enabling you to piece everything together with ease.

This course includes:

  • Videos

    • Starting at the basics and working our way to more advanced topics

    • Easily digestible videos which tell you what you need to know without long-winded explanations or digressions

    • Concepts described in detail without straying to far from the topic at hand

  • Coding Exercises

    • Exercises at relevant stages

    • Exercise solutions

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The fundamentals of java
  • How to understand and write simple java programs
  • Practice exercises to strengthen your coding knowledge

Syllabus

First Steps
Downloading and installing IntelliJ IDEA
Creating a new Java project
Using a simple recipe analogy, you will understand how to structure a basic Java program for writing your own programs.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Uses IntelliJ IDEA, which is a popular integrated development environment among professional Java developers, thus exposing learners to industry-standard tools
Includes coding challenges that allow learners to apply their knowledge and build practical skills, reinforcing their understanding of Java fundamentals
Covers fundamental programming concepts like variables, conditional statements, loops, and arrays, which are essential for building a strong foundation in Java
Explores methods (functions), which are crucial for writing modular and reusable code, enabling learners to create more complex and organized Java programs
Features a program walkthrough of Tic-Tac-Toe and Prime Numbers, which provides practical examples of how to apply Java concepts to solve real-world problems
Requires learners to download and install IntelliJ IDEA, which may require a computer that meets the minimum system requirements for the software to run smoothly

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Reviews summary

Foundational java for absolute beginners

According to learners, Java for Absolute Beginners is an excellent starting point for those with zero prior programming experience. Students praise the course for its clear and concise explanations and steady pace, which makes complex topics approachable. The hands-on coding exercises after each section are highlighted as particularly helpful for practicing and solidifying concepts. While the course effectively builds a strong foundation in Java fundamentals, some reviews suggest that later sections could benefit from more detail and the exercises might become less challenging towards the end, potentially requiring supplemental practice. Overall, it is geared strictly towards total novices.
Best suited only for those with zero prior coding.
"If you have any prior programming experience, even in another language, this might be too slow or repetitive in the beginning."
"It's strictly for total novices."
"Might be too basic if you have any previous coding experience, even a little. Geared strictly towards total novices."
Coding challenges help solidify learning effectively.
"The coding challenges after each section are incredibly helpful for practicing what you've learned."
"The hands-on coding activities solidify the concepts effectively."
"I appreciated the focus on practical application with the coding exercises."
"The exercises are simple but effective for getting hands-on practice."
"The coding challenges are well-placed and reinforce learning effectively."
Concepts are explained simply and logically.
"The explanations are clear and concise, and the videos are easy to follow."
"The instructor explains complex topics simply and logically."
"Excellent course. The explanations are very clear and easy to grasp."
"I've tried learning to code before and failed, but this course made it click. Covers all the essential basics."
"The structure, starting from setup and moving logically through fundamentals, is perfect for a beginner."
Starts from zero knowledge, including setup.
"This course is truly for absolute beginners. It starts with the very basics, like installing Java and setting up your environment..."
"Perfect for absolute beginners. The explanations are crystal clear, and the practical exercises are invaluable."
"Highly recommend this course for true beginners. It patiently walks you through setting up your environment and the core concepts."
"I had zero programming experience and this course made Java approachable."
Some found pace varied or examples too simple.
"Found some sections confusing. The examples were sometimes too simplistic to understand how they'd apply in real code."
"The instructor's pace varied; some parts felt rushed, others too slow."
Could be more detailed or challenging later on.
"I found some of the later sections, like methods and arrays, a bit rushed compared to the earlier ones."
"The exercises are useful, but sometimes I wished there were more complex problems to really test understanding."
"As others mentioned, some later topics feel a bit less detailed than the initial ones."
"My main criticism is that while the early exercises are great, the later ones don't scale up much in difficulty."
"Agree with others that later topics/exercises could be more challenging..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Java for Absolute Beginners with these activities:
Review Basic Programming Concepts
Reinforce fundamental programming concepts like variables, data types, and control flow to prepare for Java-specific syntax and concepts.
Browse courses on Programming Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Review notes from any previous programming courses or tutorials.
  • Complete online quizzes or exercises on basic programming concepts.
  • Write simple programs in a language you are already familiar with.
Review 'Head First Java'
Use this book to gain a solid foundation in Java programming concepts and syntax.
View Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the first few chapters covering basic Java syntax and object-oriented principles.
  • Complete the exercises and quizzes at the end of each chapter.
  • Experiment with the code examples provided in the book.
CodingBat Java Practice
Practice basic Java coding problems on CodingBat to reinforce understanding of fundamental concepts like loops, arrays, and conditional statements.
Show steps
  • Visit the CodingBat website and select the Java section.
  • Work through the problems in the Warmup-1 and Warmup-2 sections.
  • Attempt the problems in the String-1 and Array-1 sections.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Java Cheat Sheet
Compile a cheat sheet of essential Java syntax, keywords, and concepts for quick reference.
Show steps
  • Review the course materials and identify key concepts.
  • Organize the information into a clear and concise format.
  • Include examples of common Java syntax and code snippets.
Simple Calculator Program
Build a simple calculator program to apply learned concepts such as user input, conditional statements, and basic arithmetic operations.
Show steps
  • Design the user interface for the calculator.
  • Implement the logic for performing basic arithmetic operations.
  • Handle user input and display the results.
  • Add error handling for invalid input.
Help Others on Java Forums
Reinforce your understanding of Java by helping other beginners on online forums.
Show steps
  • Find a Java programming forum or Q&A site.
  • Browse the questions and identify those you can answer.
  • Provide clear and helpful explanations to assist other learners.
Review 'Effective Java'
Use this book to learn best practices for writing effective and maintainable Java code.
View Effective Java (3rd Edition) on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters focusing on topics covered in the course.
  • Study the code examples and explanations provided in the book.
  • Apply the best practices learned to your own Java projects.

Career center

Learners who complete Java for Absolute Beginners will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Junior Programmer
A Junior Programmer writes, tests, and maintains code. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, helps to build the skills necessary to start in a role as a junior programmer, particularly one that utilizes Java. The course focuses on the fundamentals of Java programming, including how to understand and write simple programs, use variables and data types, and implement loops and conditional statements, all of which are programming basics for any junior programmer. The practical coding exercises in this course may be particularly useful in providing hands-on experience. This course may be a logical first step for an aspiring junior programmer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Junior Programmer
Software Developer
A Software Developer designs, develops, and tests software applications. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, helps build a foundation in the core concepts of Java programming, which is a widely used language in software development. The course helps learners understand how to write simple Java programs, use variables and conditional statements, and create loops, all of which are fundamental to any software development role. Through this course, a prospective software developer may gain the skills necessary to begin working on practical software projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Application Developer
An Application Developer creates and maintains software applications for computers and mobile devices. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be useful for individuals who want to begin down the path of application development. The course teaches the fundamentals of Java, which is an object-oriented language frequently used for building applications. The course offers hands-on experience via coding exercises, building knowledge of essential programming concepts including the use of variables, arrays, conditional statements, and loops. Because a solid understanding of foundational programming concepts is essential for application developers, this course may be helpful to beginners.
See salaries and explore the career path for Application Developer
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer applies engineering principles to the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of computer software. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may provide a strong foundation in Java which is foundational for aspiring software engineers. The course covers core programming concepts, like data types, control flow, methods, and arrays, all of which are essential in software engineering. The practical coding exercises and thorough explanations offered by this course may be helpful for someone seeking to enter the field of software engineering.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Backend Developer
A Backend Developer builds and maintains the server-side of web applications, the logic that powers the front end. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, can be helpful for anyone seeking to become a backend developer. Java is used frequently for backend web development. It is imperative that a backend developer have solid programming fundamentals, and this course introduces concepts such as variables, loops, and conditional statements. The course's hands-on exercises may also provide practical experience essential to a backend developer, making it useful to begin a career in backend development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Backend Developer
Mobile App Developer
A Mobile App Developer is responsible for designing, coding, testing, and debugging mobile applications. Java is a popular language for developing Android applications, and this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be useful for anyone who wants to become a Mobile App Developer. The course offers a step-by-step introduction to fundamental concepts of Java programming, including variables, loops, and conditional statements. By providing hands-on coding exercises, this course may be helpful to one who wishes to gain familiarity with Java programming before becoming a Mobile App Developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile App Developer
Web Developer
A Web Developer is responsible for building and maintaining websites. While Java might not be the primary language for front-end web development, it is often used for back-end development and server-side logic. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be helpful for those who wish to become backend web developers. The course introduces core Java programming concepts, such as methods, classes, and data structures. The fundamentals provided in this course may be particularly valuable for an aspiring web developer who seeks to understand that layer of the web stack. Through hands-on exercises this course can help one build a solid foundation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Quality Assurance Analyst
A Quality Assurance Analyst is responsible for testing and ensuring the quality of software products. While this role does not primarily involve writing code, having some programming knowledge like that this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, provides may be helpful in understanding the software development process and writing automated tests. The course's explanations of core concepts like conditional statements and loops may help one gain a greater understanding of software development, thus allowing an analyst to better perform in their role. This practical knowledge may be valuable in the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst
Software Tester
A Software Tester is responsible for identifying defects in software before it is released. While a software tester may not write code as their primary function, having knowledge of programming, such as that gained from this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be very helpful in writing automated tests. This course introduces the fundamentals of programming and concepts such as variables, loops, and conditional statements. Understanding the basics of code may allow a Software Tester to write more effective tests. This course may help one understand the practical aspects of software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Tester
Solutions Architect
A Solutions Architect designs and maps technical solutions based on business requirements. This role requires a strong understanding of software development, and this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may help to provide a foundation in those concepts, particularly in Java, which is a commonly used language in enterprise systems. The practical programming skills gained in this course may be useful for a Solutions Architect who needs to understand code at a foundational level. This course can be a helpful first step to understanding the practical side of technology solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solutions Architect
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist analyzes large datasets to extract insights and make predictions. While Java may not be the primary tool for data analysis (Python is more common), this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be helpful to Data Scientists who need to interact with Java-based systems or perform some data processing using Java. The course may improve one's understanding of programming concepts and may be helpful in interacting with datasets. The programming experience offered in this course may be valuable in a data science context.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator may not write code full time, but they design, implement, and maintain a company's database and often need to use code. This course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be helpful because Java is frequently used in database management. The concepts taught in this course, such as variables, methods, and conditional statements, are foundational to writing database scripts. This course may help one gain the programming fundamentals necessary to manage databases. The practical experience offered by this course may be useful to a prospective database administrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Systems Analyst
A Systems Analyst researches problems, plans solutions, and recommends software and systems. While this role involves more than just programming, a solid understanding of software development principles, like those provided by this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be helpful for systems analysts, especially those who work with software systems. The course introduces fundamental Java concepts and problem-solving skills that may be useful for a systems analyst who must understand software from a high level. The knowledge of practical programming provided by this course may help improve understanding of software systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst
Technical Support Specialist
A Technical Support Specialist provides support to users of technical products and services. While this role doesn't require in-depth coding knowledge, having a basic understanding of programming, as taught in this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, may be helpful when diagnosing and resolving technical issues. A Technical Support Specialist who has an understanding of basic coding may better identify and solve problems. The course's introduction to logic and problem-solving may also be valuable in diagnosing software-related issues.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Support Specialist
Technology Consultant
A Technology Consultant advises organizations on how to use technology to meet their business objectives. While this role is not technical full-time, a basic understanding of coding, which this course, Java for Absolute Beginners, provides, may be very helpful. Having familiarity with programming concepts may allow a consultant to make more informed recommendations. The knowledge of programming logic gained in this course may be useful for a technology consultant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Consultant

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Java for Absolute Beginners.
Cover image
Head First Java
Save
Head First Java visually rich, brain-friendly guide to Java programming. It uses a unique format to engage the reader and make learning more effective. is particularly helpful for beginners as it breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible chunks. It is commonly used as a textbook in introductory Java courses.
Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide
Paperback
$$
Head First Java
Kindle Edition
$$
Effective Java (3rd Edition)
Save
Effective Java provides invaluable insights into Java programming best practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic design principles to advanced concurrency techniques. is more valuable as additional reading to deepen your understanding of Java and write more robust and maintainable code. It is commonly used by industry professionals.
Effective Java (3rd Edition)
Paperback
Check
Effective Java (3rd Edition)
Kindle Edition
Check

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Rating
4.6 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
8.5 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Nick H
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Uses IntelliJ IDEA, which is a popular integrated development environment among professional Java developers, thus exposing learners to industry-standard tools
Includes coding challenges that allow learners to apply their knowledge and build practical skills, reinforcing their understanding of Java fundamentals
Covers fundamental programming concepts like variables, conditional statements, loops, and arrays, which are essential for building a strong foundation in Java
Explores methods (functions), which are crucial for writing modular and reusable code, enabling learners to create more complex and organized Java programs
Features a program walkthrough of Tic-Tac-Toe and Prime Numbers, which provides practical examples of how to apply Java concepts to solve real-world problems
Requires learners to download and install IntelliJ IDEA, which may require a computer that meets the minimum system requirements for the software to run smoothly
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