FOREWORD

Computer programming is magical. Programmers make computers come to life, and with the right tools, the possibilities are limitless. But even today’s skilled programmers started with something very small and simple.

I have often wondered what exactly makes programming exciting. The answer, I think, is how even tiny programs can make things happen instantly. When I was twelve, I was introduced to BASIC for the first time. The sheer simplicity of it struck me. It was inviting, not intimidating. And at the time, BASIC was everywhere—it had taken the new world of microcomputers by storm.

My first program worked flawlessly and gave me the instant gratification that kept me wanting to do more. This is what it looked like:

10 PRINT "Hello" ...

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