Unrelenting

I'm new to programming, in general, I tried to learn C++ but it was too complicated, and im not saying Java is any easier in any way, but it seems like I can get a lot further with it. I need to start out small, like what means what, what a certain line of code means, and what their function is.

I don't know if this has anything to do with it (C++ it does) but I have a poor mathematical background. Like seriously last year(jr year) I took algebra 1, and i refuse to take a math this year.

I just need some reccomendations on good online books, and compilers and such

wannabe7

I think it's going to be even tougher for you. Programming takes a lot, I mean A LOT of dedication. You can't just do it for a while, stop for a while, and restart. IMO there's no such thing as an easy way to learn it; you just start with the begining and move forward. Hmm...Algebra 1? It's cake, IMHO.

Other than that, it's very easy to get started. Just search Google for C++ compilers such as Bloodshed's Dev-C++ and Microsoft's Visual C++. For books, I think that most will do. Either to go your local library and search for one or ask some of the Gurus here for links to free online guides. Good luck.

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Jimbo

You can write some programs with little mathematical use, but it might get difficult to go very far; for instance, you won't be writing cool games. As for algebra, most of the math you'll see will be similar to that, where everything is in variables. On the other hand, you probably won't need to know how to find x in 5x/(3x^2) - 5y^2 = 10 where y = 5.

That said, C++ can be a difficult place to start. Java will probably be easier, but that's not to say it will be easy. You might also consider C# (very similar to Java) or Visual Basic.NET (considered easier to learn in some circles).

For a Java compiler, you can get it from Sun's website (you want the JDK). You'll also want an IDE to develop in; there's several around, and they can get complicated. I would use Eclipse if it were me, but I'm most familiar with that one and it does have a lot of heavy features you won't need.

If you decide to try C# or VB.NET, you can get free compilers and an IDE from Microsoft.

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Benoit

A poor mathematical background isn't going to impede you from learning how to write computer programs. A good C/C++ compilers is Visual Studio 2008 Express or CodeBlocks. If you're having trouble with C++, maybe you should start with C.

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Fall Back Son

Its not? Nearly every programming project I've worked on required advanced logical thinking. A good background in mathematics is definitely helpful. That said, you may not need to be a mathematical genius, but you definitely need to be at a point where you consider most algebra problems workable.

BstrucT

Good Point.
That's how I did it.
You can't go wrong with C as it forces you to actually check your code line for line at times. And also that you can't really progress before understanding the previous work.

Tricky but very good starting point.

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