A computer cannot do anything on its own. Therefore, we instruct the computer to perform different tasks using the computer programs. We, being human, understand various languages like English, Hindi, French, etc. But the computer only understands 0’s and 1’s, also known as binary values. Therefore, in order to interact with the computer, we need to convert our instructions to 0’s and 1’s. Practically, it is very difficult for us to translate everything into binary values to communicate with the computer. Due to this use coding and programming. In this article on Coding vs Programming, we will see what coding and programming are and how they are different from each other.

What is Coding?

To code is to translate a human language input into machine language. In order to do that, you need to know various programming languages such as C, C++, JAVA, Python, etc. These programming languages will provide you with constructs to give all sorts of instructions to the computer. You can learn to code in any of these languages.  Coding is basically writing instructions that will help in achieving the task that is needed to be done.

What is Programming?

Programming can be understood as a superset of coding. Consider that you need to develop software. For that you need to come up with a proper plan as to what components that software will contain, how will the software look like, what can be the possible cases where the software might fail, and also how that software will be deployed to the respective users. Clearly, it is much more than coding as you need to analyze various functionalities, come up with an optimal algorithm, use efficient data structures, and much more. This is what programming is all about. You can learn Python, object-oriented programming, software engineering, etc to master programming.

Coding vs Programming: The Key Differences

With the help of the above definitions, we see that coding and programming are not the same things. In order to get a more clear understanding of the differences between coding and programming, let us dive deep into the discussion of coding vs programming based on different parameters. 

• Scope: Coding is all about providing a specific logic to the computer in the form of instructions which in turn will do the work accordingly. However, programming is not restricted to only writing the instructions. It includes proper analysis and visualization of various issues that might occur when you go ahead with the process of creating software. Also, there are various factors involved in programming namely debugging, compiling, testing, and implementation. Suppose, while giving instructions to the computer you might end up providing some erroneous instruction that will result in the program misbehaving. This is not desired but it might happen. Now, you need to take proper measures to remove the errors so that your program works properly. You will also need to have an understanding of how a human-readable code is translated into machine code or the code which is understood by the computer so that you can implement an efficient code. In order to ensure that the program works properly, tests need to be done on the software which will eradicate the chances of failures and unexpected crashes. Finally, you will have to decide how the instructions are given to the computer efficiently with clean and readable code such that in future debugging is easier. 
• Tools: When you talk about tools that are involved in coding they are very few. Even if you have only a simple editor like a notepad it is enough. When it comes to programming, a lot of work needs to be done. You need to have coding tools along with various linkers, different libraries and frameworks, different debugging tools, different designing tools, and many of the times even databases if you need to work on data. Combining all of these results in a well-planned and efficient task which can be delivered by the computer.
• Skills: Coding only requires you to have basic knowledge of programming languages. Just write the code and that is enough. But when it comes to programming it is far more complex. Programming would simply demand you to come up with various algorithms and data structures that will result in high-end efficiency. Also, different models and data processing units are sometimes complex and you will have to go through them to understand them properly. While programming, a programmer needs to come up with an effective logic and analyze all sorts of errors that might occur in the future development of the project. A programmer also puts in his imagination and analytical skills to solve tricky problems.
• Viewpoint: Whenever you are coding it is just a trial and error approach that is being done. You run the code and see if there is any logical or syntax error. If it exists, you debug it and re-run it until the task is achieved. But as far as programming is concerned, it comes with proper planning, and there has to be an orderly approach where even the smallest error is considered and measures are taken not to fall into it. 
• Outcomes: When you are coding, it is just like talking to the computer with your instruction through which the task needs to be done. But when programming comes, it can turn out to be a masterpiece in the form of software, a website, or an application that is tested on all possible test cases to avoid errors and further crashes. Now, this product is widely used by clients who buy it to make their work easier.

Coding vs Programming: The Conclusion

From the above-mentioned differences, it can be concluded that coding and programming are not the same but both of them are required for us to develop any application or product. Coding is just a small but important part of programming. I hope you enjoyed the discussion of coding vs programming. Stay tuned for more informative articles. 

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