Unpopular take: I think starting with Python is actually a bad idea for most beginners

I know everyone says Python is the way to go for new coders, but after teaching 3 friends who all quit within 2 months, I changed my mind. The problem is Python hides too much stuff - like indentation being syntax, dynamic typing, and all those magic methods. My buddy Dave spent 3 weeks debugging a bug that was just a tab vs spaces issue. I've seen way better results when beginners start with something like JavaScript or even a bit of C, because you actually see what the computer is doing. Python makes you feel like you're coding until you hit a wall you can't explain. Has anyone else seen new coders bounce off Python harder than expected?

2 comments

2 Comments

craig.parker11h ago

Wait THREE weeks over a tab vs spaces issue? That's wild man.

river_thompson10h ago

Haha right? I bet somewhere in there someone actually died on that hill too. Classic.