First things first, if you already know a programming language, great! If you don't, even better, cause I have some good new for you. Learning one isn't rocket science, and there are tons of resources available on the internet, for free!
But you need to decide which programming language you want to learn. There are 4 primary languages that developers prefer when it comes to Machine Learning; Python, R, Java, and C++. If you are working for an organization that prefers or already works with one of these, well then that narrows down your list of choices. But if that's not the case, pick up Python.
Why Python?
Because it is easy to learn. Plain and simple.
This is one of the main features of Python. So, with Python, you can focus more on Machine Learning rather than learning the Python language itself. Makes sense, right?
But that is not all. Python is versatile to say the least. It has applications in various fields. From Machine Learning, to web scraping, web development, game development, networking, cyber security, enterprise-level business application development, and a lot lot more.
But how to learn Python?
As I mentioned earlier, there are tons of free resources available on the internet. Here are a few of them (but trust me, these are all that you will ever need):
1. The Hitchhiker's Guide to Python: One of the best free online Python courses that I have ever seen, this website is part of a book by the same name. It is also available in various languages, and covers a variety of topics which are suitable for both begginers and seasoned coders.
2. A Byte of Python: An online, no-nonsense tutorial that is great for beginners. You can also check out his vim tutorial.
3. Python Tutorial - TutorialsPoint: Along with the basics, this covers some additional interesting topics like GUI programming, multi-threading, database acces, regex, etc.
4. Here is a video of a full Python course from freeCodeCamp.org:
5. Here is another YouTube tutorial from Mosh:
If you are willing to spend a few bucks, go for the The Complete Python Programmer Bootcamp 2020 on Udemy. I follow Giles McMullen-Klein on his YouTube channel Python Programmer, he shares tons useful resources related to, you guessed it right, Python and Machine Learning.
In case you are one of those bookish types like me, you can buy Automate the Boring Stuff by Al Sweigart. He follows a more hands-on approach, and teaches by doing various Python projects.
These should get you started pretty comfortably. So, Happy Learning!
