Whether you're a seasoned coder or just getting started, mastering a new programming language can feel like learning a whole new way to think. With so many resources out there, finding the right ones to truly level up can be a challenge.

In this guide, we have curated the top 30 resources across books, websites, and courses for developers of all experience levels. To make your learning journey smoother, each recommendation comes vetted by the Pinata team. Let’s begin.

1. JavaScript/TypeScript

More than 62% of developers use JavaScript making it the most commonly used programming language out there. It is used for:

• Building dynamic websites
• Creating interactive web applications
• Developing server-side applications with Node.js
• Powering frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue 

We have grouped TypeScript with JavaScript here because it builds upon JavaScript by adding static typing and other advanced features. Devs typically transition from JavaScript to TypeScript as they scale projects or require more robust and error-resistant code.

For Beginner JavaScript Programmers

Developed by Ed offers engaging, project-based courses in web development, covering HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. These courses help learners build real projects, reinforcing programming concepts and foundational skills. Each course is affordably priced at $29.99, with the Ultimate Next.js Course 2024 Edition available for $39.99.

For Intermediate JavaScript Programmers

Eloquent JavaScript by Marijn Haverbeke is an in-depth exploration of JavaScript and programming principles. The fourth edition ebook, updated in 2024, covers language features, browser APIs, and Node.js. It’s free, and it’s a great resource for developers trying to take their JavaScript game to the next level.

For Advanced JavaScript Programmers

The Typescript Handbook covers everything from basic type annotations to advanced concepts like generics and decorators. This resource is free, accessible online, and offers practical examples to reinforce learning. It is perfect for developers transitioning from JavaScript to TypeScript.

2. Go

Known for its simplicity and efficiency, Go is widely used in cloud computing, networking, and large-scale systems. It is valuable for backend developers and those interested in performance optimization.

For Beginner or Intermediate Go Programmers

The Tour of Go is an interactive, browser-based tutorial designed to introduce developers to the fundamentals of the Go programming language. It covers key concepts such as syntax, data structures, and concurrency, with hands-on coding exercises that allow users to write and execute Go code directly in the browser. It’s free and ideal for beginners and intermediate developers looking to get a solid foundation in Go.

The AnthonyGG YouTube channel offers a wide range of tutorials and insights into the Go programming language. With a focus on practical examples and real-world applications, AnthonyGG breaks down complex concepts like concurrency, testing, and advanced Go features into digestible lessons. This free resource is perfect for both beginners and intermediate developers who prefer hands-on learning and video-based instruction.

For Advanced Go Programmers

“Advanced Go Programming: Building High-Performance and Concurrent Applications” is a comprehensive guide that delves into advanced concepts of the Go programming language. It covers essential topics such as concurrency patterns, performance optimization, microservices architecture, and distributed systems. The book includes hands-on tutorials, practical examples, and code samples. Pricing starts at $3 for the ebook, $10 for paperback, or $17 for hardcover. 

3. SwiftUI

Designed by Apple, Swift is used for developing iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS applications, making it indispensable for mobile and Apple platform developers.

For Beginner SwiftUI Programmers

Hacking with Swift is an online platform that offers free and paid resources for learning Swift and iOS app development. The site provides tutorials, example code, and courses covering both SwiftUI and UIKit frameworks. The platform offers a free trial and a subscription with access to exclusive content for $20 per month.

For SwiftUI Programmers at All Skill Levels

Code with Chris is a YouTube channel dedicated to teaching iOS app development. The channel's project-based approach helps learners apply concepts in real-world scenarios. The channel’s owner, Chris Ching, offers tutorials ranging from beginner to advanced levels, covering topics such as building apps with Xcode, understanding Swift programming, and using SwiftUI for user interfaces. 

SwiftUI by Tutorials (Fifth Edition) is a 748-page book that covers a range of topics from basic SwiftUI features to advanced concepts like state management, animations, and accessibility. Designed for intermediate iOS developers, the book offers step-by-step tutorials and practical examples to facilitate learning. The paperback edition is available for purchase on Amazon at $59.99. 

4. Python

A versatile language known for its simplicity, Python is widely used in data science, machine learning, automation, and web development. Its popularity has grown rapidly in recent years and is expected to continue rising. Here are some good resources for learning it.

For Python Programmers at All Skill Levels

Automate the Boring Stuff with Python is a free book that covers topics like web scraping, file manipulation, and automating tasks like sending emails and updating spreadsheets. The content is structured to guide readers from basic to advanced levels, with step-by-step instructions and practice projects at the end of each chapter. An online video course, based on the book’s content, is also available on Udemy.

For Intermediate or Advanced Python Programmers

Intermediate Python Tutorials by Real Python is a curated collection of articles and video courses designed to help developers expand their Python knowledge beyond the basics. These resources cover topics like object-oriented programming, decorators, testing, and web development. The tutorials are freely accessible.

Effective Python: 125 Specific Ways to Write Better Python (3rd Edition) covers topics like Pythonic thinking, functions, classes, concurrency, and performance optimization. The book provides practical advice and real-world examples to promote writing efficient, maintainable, and idiomatic Python code. The book is suitable for both intermediate and advanced developers. The paperback edition is available for $55.99.

5. Java

Java is a powerful, platform-independent language used in enterprise applications, Android development, and large systems. It is valuable for developers in the enterprise and mobile sectors.

For Beginner and Intermediate Java Programmers

Oracle Java SE 11 Programming Complete covers object-oriented programming, functional programming, and the new features introduced in Java SE 11. The course provides hands-on exercises and real-world examples to reinforce learning and practical application. It is ideal for developers aiming to enhance their Java skills and prepare for the Java SE 11 Developer certification exam.

For Intermediate Java Programmers

Java Brains is a YouTube channel that offers comprehensive tutorials on Java and JavaScript, catering to both beginners and experienced developers. The channel features over 1,700 videos covering topics such as Spring Boot, microservices, and full-stack development. Java Brains provides structured courses and hands-on coding assignments to facilitate active learning and is ideal for developers seeking to enhance their skills through guided, practical instruction.

For Advanced Java Programmers

Effective Java by Joshua Bloch covers everything related to Java from objects and classes to methods and serialization. Each chapter consists of several short, standalone essays that provide specific advice and insights into Java platform subtleties, accompanied by updated code examples. The book is available in ebook or paperback starting at around $42.

6. Rust

Recognized for its performance and memory safety, Rust is used for systems programming, game development, and high-performance applications. These resources will help you upskill yourself in this language this year.

For Beginner or Intermediate Rust Programmers

The Rust Programming Language is the official guide to learning Rust. This free online resource covers everything from basic syntax to advanced topics like ownership, lifetimes, and concurrency. With clear explanations and practical examples, it’s ideal for both beginners starting with Rust and intermediate developers looking to deepen their understanding. The book is continually updated to reflect the latest Rust features and best practices.

For Intermediate or Advanced Rust Programmers

Rust Exercises is an interactive platform designed to help learners master Rust through practical, hands-on experience. The platform offers a free course titled "100 Exercises to Learn Rust," which guides users through Rust's core concepts. The platform also provides advanced masterclasses focusing on specific topics such as Rust-Python interoperability, advanced testing, and telemetry for Rust applications.

For Advanced Rust Programmers

Programming Rust is a comprehensive guide for experienced systems programmers. The book covers Rust's fundamental data types, ownership and borrowing concepts, traits, generics, and concurrency. It provides practical insights into writing flexible, efficient, and safe code and explores advanced topics such as closures, iterators, asynchronous programming, collections, strings, macros, unsafe code, and foreign function interfaces. The book can be accessed with a subscription to the O'Reilly learning platform, which offers a 10-day free trial.

7. Ruby

Known for its readability and efficiency in web development, Ruby (especially through Ruby on Rails) is popular for building web applications quickly, making it ideal for startup and rapid development environments.

For Beginner Ruby Programmers

Codecademy’s Learn Ruby covers fundamental concepts such as control flow, looping, arrays, hashes, and object-oriented programming. It includes interactive lessons, quizzes, and projects to reinforce learning. The course is beginner-friendly and takes approximately 9 hours to complete.

For Intermediate Ruby Programmers

Learn Ruby the Hard Way is a comprehensive course designed to teach Ruby programming through a series of 52 exercises. The course starts with fundamental topics such as variables, functions, loops, and data structures, and progresses to more advanced concepts like object-oriented programming and automated testing. The course is available for free online, with an option to purchase a digital download that includes a professional-quality PDF and hours of HD video tutorials for $29.99.

For Advanced Ruby Programmers

Metaprogramming Ruby 2 discusses advanced Ruby concepts such as the object model, scopes, singleton classes, and dynamic methods. It provides pragmatic examples and 33 practical ‘spells’, i.e. recipes and idioms that can be applied immediately to write code. The book also includes programming challenges to encourage experimentation with metaprogramming concepts. It is priced at $27.95.

8. Kotlin

Officially supported by Google for Android development, Kotlin is widely used for mobile applications. Android developers should look into the following resources:

For Beginner Kotlin Programmers

Kotlin Bootcamp for Programmers is a free online course offered by Udacity. It is structured into six lessons and covers topics such as basic syntax, data types, functions, object-oriented programming, and advanced features like lambdas and higher-order functions. Each lesson includes hands-on exercises and practical examples to reinforce learning.

For Intermediate Kotlin Programmers

Kotlin in Action is a book tailored for experienced Java developers. It covers Kotlin's language basics, building applications for the JVM and Android devices, functional programming on the JVM, writing clean and idiomatic code, combining Kotlin and Java, and constructing domain-specific languages. The book is available for $43.99 on Kindle.

For Intermediate or Advanced Kotlin Programmers

Advanced Android with Kotlin is another free Kotlin course offered by Udacity. The course covers advanced topics such as notifications, custom views, animations, and integrating Google Maps. It also covers testing methodologies and implementing user authentication with FirebaseUI. This resource is ideal for developers with a foundational understanding of Android and Kotlin who are looking to build feature-rich, high-quality applications.

9. C++

Known for its speed and efficiency, C++ is widely used in systems programming, game development, and applications requiring high-performance computing. It is used by developers focused on resource-intensive and real-time applications.

For Beginner C++ Programmers

C++ Tutorial for Beginners by Mosh Hamedani is a concise and beginner-friendly video tutorial designed to provide a strong foundation in C++ programming. In just 1 hour and 22 minutes, Mosh covers essential topics like variables, data types, control structures, functions, and object-oriented programming. The course is ideal for developers new to C++ or programming in general, as it focuses on clear explanations and practical examples.

For Beginner or Intermediate C++ Programmers

C++ Primer offers comprehensive explanations of language fundamentals, advanced features, and best practices. With detailed examples and exercises, it guides readers through object-oriented programming, templates, the Standard Template Library (STL), and the new features introduced in C++11. This 976-page book is ideal for both beginners and experienced programmers aiming to refine their knowledge of modern C++. The paperback edition is priced around $40.

For Advanced C++ Programmers

Effective Modern C++ provides 42 specific guidelines for writing C++11 and C++14 code. The book covers topics such as smart pointers, move semantics, lambda expressions, and concurrency. It explains complex concepts in a clear and practical way, using real-world examples to help developers understand how to apply modern C++ features effectively. The paperback edition is priced around $40 on Amazon.

10. PHP

A staple in web development, PHP is primarily used for server-side scripting and powers many content management systems. It is an essential language to learn for developers in web and backend development.

For Beginner PHP Programmers

PHP For Absolute Beginners is a free, 6.5-hour long course that teaches core PHP concepts such as variables, functions, arrays, loops, and object-oriented programming. It also dives into practical applications, such as handling forms and working with databases using MySQL. This course is perfect for developers who want to gain foundational knowledge of PHP or refine their skills for building interactive and data-driven web applications.

For Intermediate PHP Programmers

PHP and MySQL Web Development is a book suitable for intermediate developers who want to deepen their understanding of PHP and MySQL for real-world projects. Covering PHP scripting and MySQL database integration, the book walks readers through designing, developing, and deploying web projects. It includes topics like session management, security, e-commerce systems, and integrating with third-party services. The paperback edition starts at around $29 on Amazon.

For Advanced PHP Programmers

Advanced PHP Programming explores advanced topics such as optimization, scalability, security, and using PHP for enterprise-level applications. It also covers best practices for building large-scale, high-performing web applications and introduces advanced debugging techniques. The paperback edition starts at under $8 on Amazon.

Focus on building, leave file management to us

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Our services, ranging from a powerful file API to a global content delivery network (CDN), are designed to support everything from small prototypes to large-scale applications — for a streamlined, reliable way to manage files within any project.

We know that hands-on experience is the best way to learn, so we’ve made our platform accessible with a freemium model that allows you to try it for yourself, without any demos or contracts. We also offer self-serve resources like our robust documentation, active support channels, and a flexible API. 

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