Learning to code has become an invaluable skill in the modern digital world. With so many jobs and industries now requiring some level of programming knowledge, learning how to code has become a wise investment for people of all ages and backgrounds. Fortunately, there are now many excellent apps, online courses, and interactive websites that make learning to code fun, engaging, and accessible to total beginners. Here is an overview of some of the best options for learning to code in 2023:

Best Apps for Learning to Code

SoloLearn

SoloLearn is one of the most popular free apps for learning to code. It offers bite-sized coding lessons and quizzes in 12 programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, C++, Java, Swift, SQL, and more. SoloLearn uses a gamified approach to keep users motivated, awarding points and unlocking new levels as you progress through the lessons. A vibrant community section also allows you to ask questions and connect with other learners. SoloLearn is great for beginners who want a flexible, interactive way to start picking up the basics of coding.

Mimo

Mimo is another excellent free app for learning to code on the go. The bite-sized lessons use attractive animations, stories, and games to teach concepts in a fun and engaging way. Mimo currently offers courses in six coding languages: Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, Swift, Java, and SQL. Quizzes test your knowledge after each lesson. Mimo also has a built-in programming environment so you can write and execute code right in the app. If you want to learn to code through an app that feels more like a game than boring old lessons, check out Mimo.

Grasshopper

Created by Google, Grasshopper aims to teach even complete beginners how to write JavaScript code. The app uses mini-games and quizzes to break down core coding concepts into easily digestible chunks. Grasshopper starts by introducing you to basic JavaScript terms and syntax before gradually progressing to more advanced skills like loops and functions. The friendly anime characters that guide you through each lesson add a whimsical twist. Grasshopper is great for dipping your toes into JavaScript as an absolute beginner.

Enki

Enki takes a unique approach by teaching you how to code entirely through building games and apps. Instead of tediously working through theory-based lessons, Enki offers interactive courses that let you build fun projects right away. The app offers tutorial paths in building games with Python, web apps with JavaScript, and cross-platform mobile apps with JavaScript React Native. While following step-by-step instructions, you'll absorb key coding concepts that can be applied to any future projects. If you prefer learning by doing, check out Enki.

Codecademy

While Codecademy is better known for its extensive online courses (more details below), the app is also a handy way to learn on the go. Codecademy’s app lets you access bite-sized lessons and exercises in seven coding languages from your mobile device. You can track your progress, earn achievements, and utilize the app's built-in coding console to practice concepts immediately. However, the free mobile app includes only a limited portion of course content. For unlimited access, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid Pro membership.

Best Online Courses for Learning to Code

Codecademy

Codecademy is one of the most popular destinations for interactive coding lessons online. The site offers free and paid courses in 12 programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, C#, Ruby, SQL, Bash/Shell, and more. Courses use a mix of short video lessons, reading materials, quizzes, and hands-on coding exercises. Codecademy also offers certificates of completion upon finishing courses in certain languages. For a monthly fee, Codecademy Pro provides unlimited access to all course content, personalized help from experts, and other benefits.

freeCodeCamp

As the name implies, freeCodeCamp offers completely free coding courses with self-paced interactive lessons. The curriculum focuses mainly on full-stack web development, teaching you skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, databases, Git, Node.js, and more. Each course culminates in a final project where you build an app to demonstrate your new coding abilities. freeCodeCamp relies on a supportive community, with opportunities to pair program and get code reviews from other members. Upon completing around 300 hours of coursework, you can earn industry-recognized certifications.

edX

For those seeking college-level instruction in coding, edX offers many courses from top universities and institutions. Current options for learning to code with edX include Python programming from MIT, Java from UC San Diego, and introduction to computer science from Harvard. These courses aim to provide the theoretical foundation and computer science concepts you’ll need as a proficient programmer. While some edX courses are free, you’ll typically need to pay a fee ranging from $50 to $300 to access graded assignments, earn a certificate, and unlock unlimited course access.

Coursera

Similar to edX, Coursera enables you to learn programming online through university-created courses. Coursera offers courses in Python, Java, R, C, machine learning, web development, and data science from schools like University of Michigan, Duke University, and deeplearning.ai. Most courses follow a common structure with video lectures, readings, quizzes, hands-on projects, and community discussion forums. Like edX, Coursera allows you to audit courses for free but charges for graded assignments, certificates, and unlimited access.

Udemy

With Udemy, you can choose from thousands of coding video courses taught by individual expert instructors. Courses range from programming fundamentals like “Python for Beginners” to more advanced skills like “Modern React with Redux”. While quality varies between instructors, top-rated Udemy courses offer a cost-effective way to learn in-demand coding skills. Use student discounts and frequent sale prices (most courses are under $20) to acquire new skills for less. Udemy also offers progress tracking, exercises, community support, and certificates of completion.

Treehouse

Treehouse takes a workshop-style approach to teaching web development, coding, design, and business skills. The platform offers beginner-friendly courses in JavaScript, Python, PHP, Ruby, iOS, Android, and other programming languages. Most courses combine short video lessons with quizzes and coding challenges that help you practice your new skills. Treehouse also offers workshops that simulate real-world projects and workflows. A free trial is available, while paid plans provide additional workshops, exclusive content, and more benefits.

Pluralsight

Pluralsight hosts over 1,500 coding courses taught by industry experts. Courses span multiple languages like C#, Python, Java, JavaScript, GoLang, Ruby, and PHP. Most courses feature high-quality video instruction supplemented with interactive quizzes and coding exercises. Progress tracking helps you monitor your own improvement over time. Paid subscriptions provide unlimited access to Pluralsight’s entire course library. The platform also offers skill assessments, hands-on labs, and role-based learning paths to guide learners from beginner to advanced.

LinkedIn Learning

Previously known as Lynda, LinkedIn Learning offers thousands of online video courses covering business, creative, and technology skills. For coding, LinkedIn Learning has extensive libraries of courses on programming languages like JavaScript, Python, Java, C#, and Ruby on Rails, as well as related skills like web development, mobile app development, game development, and data science. Courses are taught by industry experts and feature video lessons, exercise files, and quizzes. Premium subscriptions are required.

Best Interactive Coding Websites

freeCodeCamp

In addition to its popular online courses, freeCodeCamp offers a selection of interactive coding challenges to help reinforce your skills. The responsive web design certificate features 300+ coding challenges that you can complete right in your browser. Test your new knowledge by building projects like a tribute page, survey form, product landing page, and technical documentation page. freeCodeCamp’s JavaScript algorithm challenges also let you practice core programming skills.

Codecademy

Beyond its catalog of courses, Codecademy also lets learners sharpen their skills with interactive coding practice. Choose from challenges in 15+ programming languages to code right in your browser. Python, JavaScript, Java, and SQL challenges feature pre-written templates or prompts so you can focus on writing code to solve problems and complete tasks. Review solutions and fix errors to master concepts. Some challenges also unlock badges and points.

CodeCombat

This game-based website aims to teach programming fundamentals in a fun, engaging way. On CodeCombat, you advance through the game by writing code in JavaScript or Python to control your hero and defeat enemies. The challenges start simple but increase in complexity and difficulty as you progress, building skills like syntax, control flow, and object-oriented programming. Playing through CodeCombat’s immersive fantasy world is an entertaining way to learn the basics.

Codewars

Codewars is a community of software developers who enjoy solving coding challenges and competing with peers. The platform features ranked coding challenges (“katas”) with accompanying unit tests that you need to solve. Using 38 supported languages, you can code up solutions and submit them to pass the unit tests. Other community members will then review and provide feedback on your code. By solving katas, you earn ranks and honor based on your programming abilities. Think of it like XP for coders!

CodinGame

On CodinGame you progress by solving increasingly difficult coding puzzles in over 25 programming languages. Puzzles involve tasks like coding an AI to play a game, optimize a route, or simulate physical systems. CodinGame emphasizes hands-on learning in a competitive, multiplayer environment. You can view and learn from solutions submitted by others. Compete in arena contests or take onCodinGame's intensive tech interviews to benchmark and improve your coding skills.

HackerRank

HackerRank hosts coding challenges and developer skill assessments across multiple languages and domains. Practice coding challenges aim to help improve programming abilities with hundreds of algorithm, data structure, mathematics, and other challenges to solve. HackerRank also allows companies to post coding challenges and assess developers’ skills through online technical interviews. A community and leaderboard add competitive elements to motivate your learning.

Replit

Replit provides a quick way to write, run, and test code right in your web browser. The online IDE editor supports over 50 programming languages and features built-in language tutorials. Use Replit to easily practice coding challenges from sites like freeCodeCamp, Codecademy, and LeetCode. Test your code and view results right in the browser. Replit also allows you to easily share your projects and code with others. The built-in community lets you ask coding questions and debug tricky problems with help.

With countless apps, online courses, coding games, and interactive websites now available, there are more ways than ever before to start learning how to code. Whether you want to pick up professional skills, train for a new career, pursue a personal passion project, or just try something new, coding has something to offer everyone. Whichever spark ignites your interest in coding, these resources offer flexible, engaging, and affordable ways to start or continue your programming journey in 2023 and beyond.

The key is to choose a learning method aligned with your current skill level, interests, learning preferences, and budget. Trying out a combination of apps, online courses, and coding challenges will allow you to reinforce your knowledge through different formats. Be patient with yourself as you build competency. Coding takes consistent practice over time. With the right tools and mindset, coding can be an incredibly rewarding and empowering pursuit.