Before entering the coding field you need to understand first how computer works, what is the deference between hardware and sofware and another things.
In this article and the upcoming ones', i will cover all the topics you need to learn before entering the coding field.
1. What is a Computer?
A computer is a machine that processes data according to instructions (programs).
At a high level, it has two main parts:
Hardware → the physical parts (CPU, memory, disk, keyboard, screen).
Software → the programs and data that tell the hardware what to do.
2. How a Computer Works (The Big Picture)
Input (keyboard, mouse, microphone).
Processing (CPU executes instructions step by step).
Storage (RAM for short-term, hard drive/SSD for long-term).
Output (screen, speakers, printer).
Think of it like: Data in → CPU processes → Result out.
3. The Operating System (OS)
The OS is the “manager” of your computer.
It controls hardware, runs applications, and gives you a user interface.
Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
As a programmer, you’ll often need to know:
How to navigate files & folders.
How to install and run software.
How to use the command line (very important for coding).
4. Files & Folders
Computers store everything as files (documents, images, programs).
Files are organized inside folders (also called directories).
Extensions tell you what type of file it is:
.txt → text file
.jpg → image
.exe → executable program
.py → Python script
Programmers constantly create, edit, and organize files.
5. Data: Bits & Bytes
At the lowest level, everything is 0s and 1s (binary).
Bit = smallest unit (0 or 1).
Byte = 8 bits (can represent numbers, letters, colors).
Storage sizes:
1 KB ≈ 1,000 bytes
1 MB ≈ 1,000 KB
1 GB ≈ 1,000 MB
1 TB ≈ 1,000 GB
6. How Computers “Think”
Computers are literal → they only follow instructions exactly.
No guessing, no assumptions.
Programming is basically: you tell the computer exactly what to do, step by step.
✅ Practice for Lesson 1:
Find out what operating system your computer uses (Windows/Linux/macOS).
Open the command line:
Windows → search for Command Prompt or PowerShell.
macOS/Linux → open Terminal.
Try these commands:
pwd (print working directory → shows where you are).
ls (list files in Linux/macOS) or dir (Windows).
cd foldername (change directory).
This practice is key—you’ll be using the command line often as a coder.
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