What and Why of Programming – Learn It the Right Way from Scratch

What is Programming?

Programming is the process of giving instructions to a computer to perform a task.

These instructions are written in a language that computers understand, like Python, C, or Java.

A computer cannot think or decide — it only follows instructions step-by-step. Programming is how we tell the computer exactly what to do.

It’s just like giving step-by-step directions to someone who doesn't know what to do unless told exactly.

Example 1: Real-Life Analogy

If you ask a robot to make an orange juice, you can't say, "Just make orange juice."

You need to give clear steps:

This is programming — writing detailed steps in the correct order so that the robot (or computer) knows what to do.

We need programming because:

Computers can’t think — they only follow instructions.

Programming helps us solve problems using a computer.

We can automate tasks(e.g., sending emails, sorting files) that are boring or repetitive.

We can build apps, websites, games, control machines(robots, ATMa, self-driving cars) and tools that help people.

Example 2: Simple Programming Task

You want the computer to add two numbers.

Instead of doing it manually, you write:

In C

#include 
int main() 
{
 int a = 5;
 int b = 3;
 printf("%d\n", a + b);
 return 0;
}

In Python

a = 5
b = 3
print(a+b)

This is a program that adds two numbers. You told the computer exactly what to do — that's programming.

Programming is not just about writing code — it's a step-by-step process that turns a problem into a working solution.

Understand the Problem : Figure out what you want the computer to do. Clearly define the input and desired output.
Plan the Logic : Break the task into smaller steps using flowcharts, pseudocode, or diagrams.
Write the Code : Use a programming language (like Python, C, or Java) to convert the logic into actual instructions.
Run the Program : Execute the code so the computer can follow your instructions.
Fix Errors (Debug) : If the program doesn’t work as expected, find and fix the mistakes.
Test & Improve : Test with different inputs and improve the code for better performance or clarity.

Programming helps us solve real-life and digital problems using logic, structure, and a programming language.

From building apps and websites to automating tasks and analyzing data — it all starts with this core process.