Just a few years ago, computer coding seemed like a mysterious skill that
could only be practised by specialists. To many people, the idea that coding
could be fun was a strange one. But then the world changed. In the space
of a few years, the Internet, email, social networks, smartphones, and
apps hit us like a tornado, transforming the way we live.
Computers are a huge part of life that we all now take for granted. Instead
of calling someone on the phone, we send a text message or use social
media. From shopping and entertainment to news and games, we guzzle
everything computers have to offer. But we can do more than just use
this technology, we can create it. If we can learn to code, we can make our
own digital masterpieces.
Everything computers do is controlled by lines of code that someone has
typed out on a keyboard. It might look like a foreign language, but it ’s a
language anybody can pick up quite quickly. Many would argue that coding
has become one of the most important skills you can learn in the 21st century.

Learning to code is tremendous fun because you can get instant results, no
matter how much more you have to learn. In fact, it’s such fun creating games
and programs that it feels effortless once you’re hooked. It’s also creative—
perhaps the first science that combines art, logic, storytelling, and business.
Not only that, coding is a fantastic skill for life. It strengthens logical thinking
and problem-solving skills—vital in many different areas of life, from science
and engineering to medicine and law. The number of jobs that require coding
is set to increase dramatically in the future, and there’s already a shortage of
good coders. Learn to code, and the digital world is yours for the taking!

- CAROL VORDERMAN