Choosing the Right Programming Language: A Beginner's Guide to Go, .NET Core, PHP, Java, and Laravel

What are these languages, and why are they popular?

1. Go (Golang): Created by Google, Go is a simple language that's great for building fast programs, especially for the Internet.
2. .NET Core: Made by Microsoft, .NET Core (called dot net) helps you build all kinds of apps that work on different computers.
3. PHP: This language is mostly used for making websites and has been around for a long time.
4. Java: A very popular language used in big companies and for making Android apps.
5. Laravel: This is not a language, but a framework that makes it easier to use PHP for building websites.

How do they work?

Type of Language

• Go and .NET Core turn your code into something the computer can run directly, which makes them very fast.
• PHP is read by the computer each time it runs, which can be a bit slower but is easier to change quickly.
• Java uses a mix of both methods, trying to be fast and flexible.
• Laravel uses PHP, so it works the same way PHP does.

How They Handle Data (Typing)

• Go, .NET Core, and Java check your data types before running, which helps catch mistakes early.
• PHP and Laravel check data types while running, which makes them more flexible but can sometimes cause surprises.

Memory Management

Doing Many Things at Once (Concurrency)

• Go is really good at doing many things at the same time, which is great for busy websites.
• .NET Core and Java also have good tools for this.
• PHP isn't as good at this on its own, but Laravel adds some helpful features.

How Fast Are They? (Performance)

• Go is very fast because it speaks directly to the computer.
• .NET Core and Java are also fast, thanks to some clever tricks they use.
• PHP and Laravel are not as fast as the others, but they're quick enough for most websites.

How Easy Are They to Learn? (Learning Curve)

• Go and PHP are generally easier to start with.
• .NET Core and Java have more to learn but teach you good coding habits.
• Laravel is easy if you already know PHP, and it helps you build websites faster.

What Can You Make With Them? (Primary Use Cases)

• Go: Great for internet services and tools you use in the command line. Used in lots of big techs.
• .NET Core: Good for all kinds of apps, including websites and games.
• PHP and Laravel: Mainly used for building websites.
• Java: Used a lot in big companies and for making Android apps.

How Well Do They Work in the Cloud?

How to Start Learning

1. Go: Start with the "A Tour of Go" on the official website. Then try making small tools or simple websites.
2. .NET Core: Use Microsoft's tutorials to learn. Start with simple programs, then try making websites.
3. PHP: Begin with the official PHP guide. Make simple web pages, then try more complex sites.
4. Java: Use Oracle's Java tutorials. Start with small programs, focusing on how to organize your code well.
5. Laravel: If you know PHP, start with Laravel's official guide and watch video tutorials on Laracasts.

What to Learn Next

1. Go: Learn about doing many things at once (concurrency) and tools for cloud computing like Docker.
2. .NET Core: Explore ways to work with databases and learn about making very small, focused services (microservices).
3. PHP: Try a framework like Laravel or Symfony to help you build websites faster.
4. Java: Learn about the Spring framework, which is widely used in big companies.
5. Laravel: Dive into more advanced features and maybe learn Vue.js to make your websites more interactive.

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you want to build fast internet services, work in cloud computing, or work in big companies, try Go.
• If you're interested in making all kinds of apps, especially in a Microsoft environment, go for .NET Core.
• For quick web development, especially if you're just starting, PHP is a good choice. Once you're comfortable, move on to Laravel to build more complex websites.
• If you want to work in big companies or make Android apps, Java is a solid choice.