The best books to learn programming and algorithms: a guide to find your way

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Studying programming and algorithms is a fundamental step for anyone who wants to approach software development in a serious and professional way. Whether you are a student, a self-taught person or a novice developer, there are some texts that represent true pillars of the sector. 

In this article we offer you a selection of recommended books to learn and deepen your knowledge of programming languages, data structures, algorithms and good coding practices.

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1. Algorithms and Data Structures – Introduction to Algorithms

Authors: Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, Clifford Stein

Often referred to simply as CLRS (from the authors' initials), this book is considered an essential reference for the study of algorithms. It is an in-depth text, full of theoretical explanations and mathematical analyses, but also of well-structured pseudocode. It is especially suitable for university students and for those who want to build a solid conceptual foundation.

📘 Recommended for those who: want to master algorithms and data structures at an advanced level.

🔍 Strengths:

  • It covers a vast array of topics in a rigorous and comprehensive manner. range of algorithms and data structures.

  • Uses universal pseudocode, independent of the programming language.

  • Great for both academic study and reference.

  • Detailed explanations supported by complexity analysis.


2. Python – A Whirlwind Tour of Python

Author: Jake VanderPlas

This short but effective volume is perfect for those who already have a minimum of programming experience and want to quickly become familiar with Python. The author, known for his contribution to the Python scientific community, offers a quick and concise guide, covering syntax, data structures, functions and fundamental modules.

The book is available here.

🐍 Recommended for: looking for a quick and modern overview of the Python language.

🔍 Strengths:

  • Short and to the point: great for those short on time or wanting a quick introduction.

  • Cover key concepts with clear, practical examples.

  • Free and available online, with code executable in Jupyter Notebook.

  • Written by an author expert in data science and computational analysis.


3. JavaScript – Eloquent JavaScript

Author: Marijn Haverbeke

A brilliant book for learning JavaScript with a practical and thoughtful approach. Haverbeke doesn't just explain syntax; he also covers key concepts in the language, such as higher-order functions, closures, asynchronous programming, and DOM manipulation.

The book is available here.

🌐 Recommended for: who wants to dive deeper into JavaScript with a modern and well-written guide.

🔍 Strengths:

  • An elegant and thoughtful approach to programming in JavaScript.

  • Interactive exercises and code that runs directly in the browser.

  • Address advanced topics such as higher-order functions and asynchronous programming.

  • Constantly updated to reflect language evolution.


4. Java – Head First Java (3rd Edition)

Authors: Kathy Sierra, Bert Bates

A very visual and educational book, which manages to explain even complex concepts such as inheritance, threads and object-oriented programming with simplicity and humor. The third edition is updated for Java 17, making it current and relevant even today.

☕ Recommended for those who: are new to Java or prefer a visual and concrete approach.

🔍 Strengths:

  • Visual and engaging style, with illustrations and dialogues to facilitate learning.

  • "Learning by doing" approach that helps to fix concepts.

  • Covers OOP, GUI and threading concepts in an accessible way.

  • Updated to the latest version of the language (Java 17).


5. Programming Best Practices – Clean Code

Author: Robert C. Martin (Uncle Bob)

"Clean Code" is a manifesto on writing readable, maintainable and elegant code. Through practical examples and case studies, Uncle Bob shows how small details in the code can make a big difference in the long run. A fundamental text for every professional developer.

🧼 Recommended for those who: want to improve the style and quality of their code.

🔍 Strengths:

  • Teaches you how to write readable, maintainable and flexible code.

  • Packed with concrete examples and "code smells" to avoid.

  • Also addresses issues of ethics and professional responsibility in software development.

  • Relevant for all languages ​​and development contexts.


6. Design Patterns – Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software

Authors: Erich Gamma, Richard Helm, Ralph Johnson, John Vlissides (Gang of Four)

This timeless classic introduces the most common design patterns in the world of object-oriented programming. Even though it is dated, it remains a valuable tool for structured reasoning about software architectural problems.

🏗️ Recommended for those who: want to write scalable and well-designed software.

🔍 Strengths:

  • Introduces 23 fundamental design patterns in object-oriented programming.

  • Provides reusable solutions to common problems in software architecture.

  • Based on concrete examples in C++, but applicable to many other languages.

  • Still a reference for software architects and senior developers.


Conclusion

Investing in reading good books is one of the best ways to grow as a developer. Whether you're learning a new language, studying algorithms, or trying to write cleaner code, the books we've listed can give you a solid foundation to start from (or build on). The key is to combine theory with practice, experimenting with real projects and solving concrete problems.



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