How to Write Your First Program

Learn the basics of coding by writing your very first computer program using simple commands. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Pick your coding environment. Open your web browser and go to a site like Scratch or Code.org. These sites use blocks to help you see how code works without needing to type complex words.
2. Start a new project. Look for a button that says 'Create' or 'Start Coding'. Click it to open your workspace, which is where you will build your program.
3. Add your first command. Find a block that says something like 'Move 10 steps' or 'Say Hello'. Drag it into the middle of your screen and click it to see what happens.
4. Combine your blocks. Stack two or three blocks together. For example, try adding a 'Wait' block between a 'Move' block and a 'Turn' block. Click the stack to run your program.