How to pick a Path

One of the most common questions learners ask when they get started with coding is, "What should I be learning?" Well, as Pat DePuydt tells us, that depends what you want to learn, what kind of problems you want to tackle, and how you like to solve problems. After considering those questions, you'll be ready to enroll in a Codecademy-curated path that is tailor-made to fit your needs!
Computer Science Path: j.mp/3ulACYn
Web Development Path: j.mp/3vEackY
Data Science Path: j.mp/3h0q2SU
- - - - -
Join the millions learning to code with Codecademy.
Learn to code: j.mp/3xIQGpk
Check out our full course catalog: j.mp/3gXRK2N

[@kathleenflatt3277]

This was so helpful. I'm having to self-teach myself so I appreciate the overview given in this video. I really didn't know what developers vs. computer science vs. data science actually meant and what they actually do. I know I love to build things so it helps to know I'm on the right track studying HTML and CSS.

[@Lucas2RC]

I believe the underlying question is: When you're into more than 1 ( or even all 3 options), how to choose? For myself, I think that either through learning new technologies and languages I will get there, or simply after I get some help. Eventually, sooner than later, I will talk to someone(I'm a uni student, bachelor of C.S. and I believe that security might be my thing, ethical hacking, defending, etc. Still to confirm) Most important, I think is to start learning. If in the middle of your path, you change, or a great job in something else than you thought comes up(or life happens), just embrace it. Sometimes the universe collaborates to answer some of your doubts/questions. I talk too much, so thanks for this video, amazing help.

[@pipadoepa]

Exactly! The best advice I can give when you don't know where to start is TO START! You can always change later, learn extra things outside of the path or whatever, but at least you will already have started and you will have gained certain knowledge and confidence that you wouldn't have if you hadn't started :)

[@robertwarner3762]

Pat, after a bit of squirreling across the different paths in codecademy, I stumbled across this video. Thank you... It is extremely helpful for a person like me (a hyperactive introvert, in the beginning of a career change) to have computer science paths simplified like you did. I was able to 1. focus, 2. answer simplified questions, and fine tune a path for myself. (Although it does still cross 2 of the suggestions here). This video is a definite for someone who is somewhat computer savvy, but cannot decide how to use skills acquired. Thanks for the help

[@500010869]

I just switched my major in college from chemistry to computer science, I am enjoying this schoolwork so much more and I am so interested to learn more about computer science and programming. Thanks for the helpful videos about computer science careers

[@mel2594]

Thank you for this video! I tried out Data Science but was feeling overwhelmed. Then I realized that I just really liked building things instead, and Web Development made more sense for me right now.

[@williamtidwell117]

Thank you, this helped me a lot in deciding what path to take.

[@Eeeppy]

This was great, thank you!

[@zadoo86]

Amazing Video, cleared my doubts what to choose as a beginners . Thanks Patrick

[@freeman37]

This is a great guide for beginners in programming. Thanks Pat!

[@joserivero8836]

Amazing video. Very helpful to narrow down a beginning path!

[@Xavier-it8sq]

Thank you Pat for this video. Very much brought in a lot of clarification to it all. But still i find myself interested in all paths. CS for fundamentals since i do not have a CS degree, then Data Science due to previous experience in building a career around it for a while then delve fully into Web Dev. I am pretty much interested in getting good with all of them. It will all pan out in the end.

[@peterkim6540]

This was super informative. Great post!

[@eyetalic]

Thanks. That was a good basic overview.

[@ais42me83]

great Video! this is super helpful to see what are the next steps to take

[@iamme24cl]

I think this was a very simple and to the point video! good Job!

[@RunOs3]

This was a great video. I kept on switching paths and thought that I was just being indecisive.

[@AaronH3n]

I do like building things and I do like asking what if questions so I might do well in either web dev. or computer science.

[@artisukasem1026]

your videos are very informative. I hoped I found this earlier. This would've brought me to a different path.

[@adonishendrix5350]

this video helped a lot. I'm very new to all of this and looking for all the basic information i can get. heading to code academy now to start this venture.

[@williamtwaddell6979]

Hello Pat, Thanks for this primer. It was most helpful to give us some idea of how to begin.

[@michaelolz]

I really think you did a great job. You answered with simple considerations and that's exactly what I needed. Now I know I'm not tethered if something else captures my imagination and I'm not hampered thinking "Well, I'm on a rail here so I guess ride this out." Awesome job!

[@Argoelectrical]

Thanks, The information provided is mindblowing but simplified. The Journey Has Begun! Lets Do This!

[@nadarioferguson6276]

Great information. I am new to programming with no prior education in this field. However, I recently completed a python beginners course and this has propelled me to continue learning how to become a programmer with Code Academy. From this video, it has confirmed that I would like to be in Data Science but I also enjoy web development. I no longer will battle with the question of what path to take but to enjoy the journey and trust the process. I'm sure I will find my to Data Science once I am completed with the Web Development path. Thanks again, all the way from The Bahamas Nadario.

[@stewiegriffin4724]

Any updates?

[@SunnySpectrum]

This was amazing. Thank you ❤

[@SherriAshton]

Ok this has made me feel sooo much better. I’m taking Computer Information Systems and it dabbles in a bit of all of these. Im more interesting in programming but want to have knowledge in other things in case.

[@christophertackett5101]

After looking at this video I'm a little confused because my job makes me be a blend of web development and data science. I do a lot of data work and find out solutions to business problems, but I'm also tasks to work on integrations with API's and web hooks because we do not have any web developers. I have no background in either but learn quick so I've been thrust into that world. so now I'm trying to learn what I can .. this was a great resource! I've signed up with Pro version of Codecademy to see what direction I can go, very excited.

[@stevennagle8752]

Interesting breakdown. I've just started looking into a career switch to something completely fresh after 10 years in my industry, due to changes in personal circumstances, so for me, getting some idea of Coding/Programming to that end is the plan.

[@NightRider54]

Hello Pat. Great video. I think this is all about "orientation" and this video explains very well three ways to start and follow that path accordingly with our personal interest. One key aspect is, are we already on a project? Or are we looking for a project? Anyways, thank you so much for this introduction.

[@YannMetalhead]

Great information, thank you!

[@Lmilleronline_]

Pat Thanks for some clarification! I Love being challenged as well as building thing's. My Wife and I are currently in the feasibility phase of our Start Up (Personal Car Rentals). I am truly interested in all area's but still not clear on which direction to begin with. I am so much the beginner and would truly appreciate your advice on the order I should begin and finish with. Thank You!

[@ivoiv1914]

Thanks mate!

[@nisrog9762]

thank that was really helpful, but I'm still having problems about witch career path do i really want, but that's not cuz of the video. the video helped me a lot acculy, so thanks.

[@matthewmccusker3449]

I've been trying code academy for years now and sometimes I find database analysis to be the path that is the most like me, but when it comes to writing I struggle. Hoping code academy can help me with writing.

[@razpagaz7327]

ive always wanted to do something in tech but i didnt know what to do , but do to some things happening in my life i made a decision to learn how to code so i wont have to end up where i dont want to be , im very much hoping that i can do it and that i will make it so for now im going with web devlopment so thanks this was very helpfull

[@basesur]

Very helpful!

[@catherineiheme6646]

Awesome information 👏

[@Crosstowndonkey]

This video was really helpful to me

[@maggiewinter182]

Hi Pat, thank you so much for the video, I really liked it! I have started with Codecadamy because I would like to become a product manager. I have a business background and have worked in tech but would really like to get a better understanding of how developers work and how I (as a hopefully future product manager) can support and guide them in the best way. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks!

[@jewel56]

“Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.” Earl Nightingale

[@sallahudinkabirr7945]

MashaAllah .. brother very useful information.. thanks for internal motivation..!

[@djrma5630]

Thanks a lot !

[@vecvolta]

Good one!

[@KapilKumar-pk9vz]

Thanks Sir

[@johnshaw1497]

Awesome video! I'm just starting down my tech path as an older person. Great information and very helpful in getting an overview of what some of these disciplines entail. Thank You

[@gerrie720]

John, how far have you come, being an older person in the computer world??. Have you given up or still at it?

[@samueldasmianus6151]

Would you mind if you give me a recommend for start the path to learn programming?i'm a new learner but i'm eager to learn this for my careers on the future and i'm not a computer science degree.

[@cuetoestradaandres2570]

It has been super helpful I loved the "if you like to build stuff go to web" I still have a question. I wanna be a serial entrepreneur and be able to build my first prototipes, also I'd like to be PM one day. I'm thinking in web development, what would be your POV?

[@lucasleao5366]

Which of this carrers are better for working from home? Because of personal reasons i can't move or live elsewere.

[@jonnyazrim138]

Hey pat I'm new to code academy, relatively compatent with computer. I lost major interest in computer stuff 2 years ago and just got it back 2 days ago. When I decided to look at teaching myself how to build an AI. Question which path is best for some one who is unemployed and has an end goal designed to work as an artificial friend

[@tam3marie]

Hi Pat. I am thinking of changing careers, because I found out that I am an Ideas person who is amazing at testing, giving feedback for improvement, and breaking things all day to (or trying to) so I can ensure they function the way they need to or the most efficiently. Problem is most companies want more than a tester and want a programmer in the same package. From this video I am guessing that would fall into Computer Science. Would you agree? Also, do you have any advice on where to begin? I am guessing SQL bc I see a lot of that in job reqs, but I don't know ANYTHING about programming. I am tech savvy enough, but no computer genius either. Thank you in advance, Tammy

[@deee.9779]

Hi,got a scholarship about 2 weeks ago but having trouble getting the basics of coding on my phone or laptop because I don't have access to that course.without that I am just guessing at the other parts,and not doing such a great job.any suggestions?

[@SW-lx2pf]

hello pat, I want to build my own apps and programs and learn to create stuff which path should I choose for that?

[@ruleaus7664]

Another important consideration not mentioned here is what path will likely lead to a job if you don't have or plan on getting a bachelor's degree. I'm choosing web development because I want to be able to get a job without one. Data and computer science will likely require a degree.

[@tatheerjumani4044]

Hi I liked your video the problem is I’m a senior I want to learn so I can work again which program should I go for because I met someone who said you won’t get a job because you are senior but I see seniors using code academy to new courses I want to make a difference for myself

[@a.s.l711]

hi Pat, i wish theres a video about telling how a novice or noob programmer like me what the symbols ,i.e. comma, period , slash , hash means instead of the function or command. im sure if understanding that will accelerating learning in programming. i dont mind what. program you are doing it for if you actually make a video of that.

[@pankajjoshi5332]

Hi I would like to hear words from you about learning of Data science, does age (more than 50) is having impact and switch over from one filed to another

[@toddboothbee1361]

If working for myself, starting as a freelancer, so I suppose I should use PHP for the backend. Most bootcamps etc. seem obsessed with everything but PHP.

[@kf4ldp]

So Web Dev it is. I've already started with Java and was looking at HTML next. Maybe I'll start seeing the science of it and move on to Data.

[@ikomaster2976]

My primary motivation to learn coding/programming is to have a remote job or become a freelancer. Please advise me on the right path to go and field of studies or subjects I should focus on. Thanks!

[@mirsacassiano4413]

Hello! I have the same desire! :)

[@darlie734]

how about when I want to be a software engineer? can you please do this path helpful tips as well? Thanks a lot

[@supermikeriver]

Thanks for the video. I am creating a turn based multi-player card game (similar to spades, online poker or pinochle) able to run on a website and phone app. There can be up to 4 players in a game with one or more humans and one or more "computer controlled" opponents. I do need the code to be hidden from the players (not javascript or server side) and unable to be copied (or stolen). So far I think python or Node.js may be able to handle this, but I am not sure. I had done this is Macromedia Authorware many years ago and that program no longer exists. Can you tell me which language would work best?

[@brandonread4638]

Do you like building things, solving problems or enjoy science? Yes. Still helpful having the paths defined and knowing more about my choices!

[@hnrs117]

which path would be the best for cyber security?

[@ahmed221]

thaaaaaaaaaaank u sooooooo much

[@Livstarling]

Great video. I’m feeling drawn to Data Science. I live on an island in Spain though, and would want to continue working remote. I’m a 43 year old woman, and looking for a career change that offers mental stimulation and financial stability and job security (as much as one can hope for these days). What is the probability of finding a decent paid job in this industry within one year? And would I be Job ready in that time if I work through the Data Science path?

[@jewel56]

The "how long does it take to learn" video said that for career advancers putting in the work, about a year can be a realistic goal.

[@DonnSufi]

i had the basic knowledge of computer and even i was a kid i loved playing around computers now i planned on making this my path and through my readings and researchings, i have found out that i have passion in cybersecurity, i was so confused at first because i didnt know where to start from and then i stumbled upon codecademy i started with introduction to Cybersecurity and completed and now taking 'the full stack engineer' path now my problem is the more i read the more i become confused because i feel like i've jumped the course and that there's somewhere i should have start from maybe read Computer science and data scientist or just read something before taking 'full stack engineer'....Please anyone to advice or share some tips for me on this path? i'd be much grateful

[@manuelasusi1060]

Hello, it's Manu here. I'm a journalist and I thought gaining coding skills could be interesting to work for online companies. What could be useful to learn for journalists? I feel it is valuable for journalist to know how to read and visualize data. I don't know if one of these three paths would be more recommended for me. Do you have any advise?

[@forever6ix853]

Hi Sir, Thanks for your explanation over here. Am new to this and I just across this video and it amazing. Please I want to join Code Academy . I found myself of writing ideas of how to develope software so basically I can say that I want to into Web development. Creating software and other aspects of bringing something new is my pleasuring every single day. Please I want a hand. I want to start it small and own my warehouse.

[@KamalTiwari82]

I want to mix Finance and AI, where do I start?

[@DannyBoy443]

You forgot game development studios. That's where I want to work.

[@jewel56]

Why at 5:05 do the audio and text not match?

[@ahadmiah915]

Hi I need help with projects using html css and javascript Is there a tutor who can help me I am in uk.

[@codecademy]

Thanks for reaching out! I recommend checking out our Forums! It's a great place to find support and mentorship. :) discuss.codecademy.com/

[@mohammedalmahdialjeafry8155]

now I am lost between to path hacking and cybersecurity or Ai. i already can made desktop program in c# and app in kotlen and website in php and front end stuff but not to that great level let say a basic things maybe or little higher than that , my knowledge is enough to me to work in my county in a lot of place ,but my country (Iraq) has no feature not any more so I am thinking about a way out of it and if I get the chance and I left Iraq I will need to have more knowledge than that I got now to work in the other country and what the knowledge that i need this is my problem exactly programing website or android app or even desktop app it wont last for a long time there is already a lot of tool depend on Ai or what ever give even the basic user ability's to create the program that the need with no need for hiring a developer or the don't need to create a thing from start most of the needed there are a already created program that can be used for it .sorry for my bad English it is not my native language but I try to improve it if you have an answer i will be grateful thank for all of you

[@revalto3950]

He looks like Samwise in Lotr

[@anilkumarsharma8901]

code the himalayas so we become more safe

[@mirali8143]

Duuhhhh uhhhhhh

[@ShalisaCordilia]

I feel like Aang, about to learn all elements.

[@Xavier-it8sq]

Likewise. I am so learning all the elements. Since the fundamentals are the same across all . Why not. The only difference is degree of depths but that can be built with time.

[@renemolina66]

It’s back on Netflix

[@jayheller5199]

hot

[@girlball12]

Very well explained. Thank you!

[@maggiewinter4840]

Hi Pat, thank you so much for the video, I really liked it! I have started with Codecadamy because I would like to become a product manager. I have a business background and have worked in tech but would really like to get a better understanding of how developers work and how I (as a hopefully future product manager) can support and guide them in the best way. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks!

[@changemechangesyou3126]

Thanks for your insights!

[@abrorkarimov4592]

hey Patrick , i liked the video and found it useful to choose my path. Thank you , i look forward to seeing further posts like this. Best Regards, Adlion.

[@gert-jank8992]

Thank you for this vid!

[@adelinomachado9232]

This was highly insightful, from a business builder perspective web development seems a great start point.still all of those areas are tremendously interesting and equally important! thank you!

[@kylecallaway6743]

Thank you! This is great and some of the other questions are helpful as well. Where would automation using existing programs/tools fall under? Same thing for script writing automation that could turn into an exe or app? Thank you!

[@ghostldr1]

Hey Pat, great video for those of us knew to the world of coding!! I'm on the fence myself as to which path I should take. I want to become a tech entrepreneur and has an interest in app development, AI, and or analytics. App development and AI are my strong go to's. Any suggestion as to whether or not any of the paths suggested in your video would be best for me?

[@ericolsson]

Hi Pat, While I was watching your video I found it a little overwhelming. My goals are a little more down to earth, My training is in Mechanical Engineering, which is good, but my son will graduate this year with a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering He has a strong interest in robot control systems. I have been working to learn as much as possible about the technical things he has learned. Of course there is overlap between our disciplines so it won't be so hard. So far lots of science around semiconductors, how processors work, digital communication, etc. I want to round the engineering out a little with some coding skills. Then we will continue to share common interests in fantastic things. That was it. I'll just have to see what I like as I move forward.

[@05campa]

How are things coming for you and your Brilliant son? Any tips for those of us wanted to get started in Robotics?

[@zayne-sarutobi]

@@05campa I wanted to inquire just about the same thing!

[@affectivity]

This was very helpful. I know very little about computer science, but as an accountant,d I created data analysis models using canned applications, and i love to see where the data led in making business decisions. Python, here I come!

[@jtaha1771]

Thanks man

[@SecTechie]

What courses would be good for a person with a CEH certificate who wants to get a certification later? By the way, this is great info. Thanks.

[@dhondiramshinde6932]

It's so helpful. Thank you so much.

[@dhondiramshinde6932]

@@codecademy yeah totally I got what I need to know. Now I am in 9th grade and I am totally interested in tech and want to do career in it but I am little confused where to go and you solve my problem I decide to go with Data Science and your links are so helpful I start to learn from it .thanks again you doing a great work for us. please give us some more videos.

[@UniversityAE]

@@dhondiramshinde6932 Woooo! We're working on them! Thanks for watching.

[@dhondiramshinde6932]

@@UniversityAE wow we gonna have some more videos that's what we need now . Can't wait for new videos I am exited and curious to know what you gonna give us .

[@dhondiramshinde6932]

@@UniversityAE hey is the world gonna need more data scientists till 2026 to 2027 ? I think yes because of AI (artificial intelligence) but I wanna know answers from you it means a lot to me

[@melissadombrowski5338]

Do you know what the best specific programs to learn would be for digital curation and archiving? I've been trying to look online and I can't find information specific enough to help me choose what I really should be doing in Codecademy. I want to go to graduate school for Library Science/digital curation and archiving but currently am only really very familiar with HTML. Thanks.

[@DoomPotato]

just started learning. Though maybe 'just' is a bad word. I have been working in Digital Marketing for 13 years, dealing with data analysis, SEO and UX. I programmed a bit earlier, mainly in Python, but today I started the career path 'Front-End Engineer' - even if I don't become a full-time programmer, such knowledge will not hurt since I work as a Digital Project Manager. I am interested in the effect of combining the things I learn with the experience in Google Analytics, GTM with the ability to build websites.

[@HostDotPromo]

Great, picking a path is critical 👍

[@UniversityAE]

Thanks!

[@beagleonvodka]

Hey Pat I found your video very informative, I would enjoy Web design and Pen Testing as well as game development., I trust Java and Python is an excellent choice?I just finished a System development Diploma utilising Java and abit of C# am currently doing a certificate on Python, to be honest Java is a real pain in the backside yet Python is fun and easier to use.Javascript was also enjoyable on your pilot course I recently did with changing colours etc.Are Java and C# related with regards to their syntax using the Hungarian naming convention?

[@tonyisijola5876]

Hi, What JavaScript test book would you recommend to a beginner? Thanks

[@mickey5fl]

This video is helpful

[@vicente5794]

Thanks for the information, i realized what i like, i like security, and everything related to it, so what would be the best to start on it?

[@eileen4695]

I don't know very much, but you could look at web development (back end) where securing user data is always important. Things like cybersecurity/preventing hacks right?

[@dariagrebenyuk8203]

Google more on "Computer security and cryptography". P.S. The author of the video mentioned only the most popular paths. He didn't even say a word about such a thing as "Game Development" or "Mobile Development", but I guess you can put both of them into the "Computer Science" path, but I'm not sure.

[@sammarcum380]

Interested in blockchain development. I've heard Python is a/the primary coding language, but is that for "cryptocurrency" or "blockchain" or both? And either way, which "path" leads to that?

[@UpAllNightSpyke]

What about hobby programming including Achal's idea of game development. I have a full time career in a totally non computer skill oriented field but want to learn something completely different like building a game, developing android/tablet applications, building apps to help with my career problems (engineering uses tons of math and apps help speed that up) or just learning different languages to not be left behind.