HTML and Python are two of the most popular coding languages besides JavaScript, and are very relevant for most development projects.
However, deciding whether to learn HTML or Python first can be a difficult decision for novice programmers.
In this guide, you’ll learn what these programming languages are used for, what complementary skills you need, and how to make the right learning choice.
What is HTML used for?
HTML, also known as HyperText Markup Language, is a standardized system for defining how web pages are displayed on the front-end of a website or application. It is used to mark up text files to achieve a specified color, font, or graphic effect on web pages.
HTML is a basic skill that every website developer should have. Every page on the World Wide Web uses HTML.
HTML works in tandem with technologies like Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and general-purpose scripting languages like JavaScript for functional and interactive front-end web development.
When is HTML knowledge useful
- Build Unique Websites
With HTML, you can create and customize websites from scratch. You can create themes and modify them at will to meet your desires.
HTML works with other coding languages like CSS and Javascript to develop interactive user interfaces.
- Allows smooth navigation on the site
By using hyperlinks, you can allow a user to navigate to other parts of a page or another web page.
These hypertexts are texts that point to another text, a section or a web page. Hypertexts use HTML to help users easily navigate a website.
- Create a web document
Web documents use HTML. They are called simple HTML files because they use the concept of HTML tags and the Document Object Model (DOM).
Every web document contains sections such as title, headings and paragraphs that use HTML tags
,
to describe client-side formats and locations.
These pages use HTML to define things like style sheets, graphics, and images to create more interactive websites.
- Make images responsive
With HTML, you can make images responsive. This gives a smooth and easy to scan user interface.
If you have images that do not match the layout of your web pages, you can resize them in HTML using the img tag specifying the height and width attributes.
Skills needed to use HTML
- Graphic design skills
- communication skills
- Responsive design and testing
- Debugging
- Knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO)
You can learn more about HTML and its applications in the Treehouse Front-End Development Techdegree program.
What is Python for?
Python is a high-level computer programming language for building websites and software applications. It is an interpreted and object-oriented coding language. It is also relevant in back-end development.
Python is also a general-purpose programming language used for task automation, data analysis, and visualization.
Related: check Python Treehouse Development Course to start with the basics.
When is Python useful
- Artificial intelligence
Python is relevant in areas of artificial intelligence. It is a high-performance programming language for tasks related to machine learning, robotics, medical diagnostics, and cloud computing.
Python has powerful web frameworks, such as Django and flaskand libraries to support AI processes.
- Scripting and task automation
Scripting is the process of writing code to build system automation. You can use Python to create automation to make programming tasks like error checking, math, or file conversion easier.
Additionally, Python can help non-programmers like writers, scientists, and small business owners simplify day-to-day tasks such as:
- Convert downloaded files to spreadsheets
- Automatically complete online applications
- Locating and renaming multiple files
- Send timed emails in batches
- Analyze and visualize data
Python is a programming language relevant to data science and analysis. Data scientists and analysts use Python to:
- Build AI algorithms
- Calculation of complex statistics
- Data analysis
- Transform data into context-rich information through visualization
- Development of software applications
Developers use Python to test and prototype software. It allows them to automate and efficiently perform tasks such as software creation, operation control, product testing, and bug tracking.
Skills needed to use Python
- Knowledge of Python web frameworks
- Basic knowledge of HTML and CSS
- Good communication skills
- Skills for problem solving
You can read more about Python and its application in the Treehouse Python Development Techdiploma program.
Is HTML or Python easier?
HTML and Python are easy to learn and master. It is difficult to choose which one is easier because they have different functions and applications.
Although HTML is relevant to website development, Python is a general-purpose programming language that offers many project opportunities in areas such as software and website development, machine learning, and computer science. data.
In the Stack Overflow Survey 2020, Python was fourth on the list of programming languages. However, their Survey 2021 shows that more developers are interested in learning Python. But keep in mind that developer interest in mastering HTML remains constant throughout this time.
Should I learn HTML or Python first?
The computer language you learn first will depend on the area of development you want to focus on.
With a solid command of the HTML markup language, you will be able to design websites. And if you want to be more versatile as a developer in web and software development, command-line projects, and data analysis, learn Python.
If you intend to become a full-stack developer, you will need a solid knowledge of HTML and Python. Additionally, you will need basic knowledge of front-end languages (HTML and CSS) if you work with Python web frameworks such as Django and Flask.
Learn what you need first. You can switch to another programming language later to expand your skills or if the scope of a project requires it.
Start your coding journey with Treehouse
There is no hard and fast rule as to which programming language you learn first. HTML and Python are easy to learn, and you can choose to start with either of these programming languages depending on the area of development you want to focus on.
Ready to start a career as a Certified Programmer? Try a Treehouse Techdegree for free today.