Best Programming Languages for Freelancers

MATLAB® offers a desktop environment specifically optimized for iterative design and analysis, paired with a programming language that allows for straightforward expression of matrix and array mathematics. It features the Live Editor, which enables users to create scripts that merge code, output, and formatted text within an interactive notebook. The toolboxes provided by MATLAB are meticulously developed, thoroughly tested, and comprehensively documented. Additionally, MATLAB applications allow users to visualize how various algorithms interact with their data. You can refine your results through repeated iterations and then easily generate a MATLAB program to replicate or automate your processes. The platform also allows for scaling analyses across clusters, GPUs, and cloud environments with minimal modifications to your existing code. There is no need to overhaul your programming practices or master complex big data techniques. You can automatically convert MATLAB algorithms into C/C++, HDL, and CUDA code, enabling execution on embedded processors or FPGA/ASIC systems. Furthermore, when used in conjunction with Simulink, MATLAB enhances the support for Model-Based Design methodologies, making it a versatile tool for engineers and researchers alike. This adaptability makes MATLAB an essential resource for tackling a wide range of computational challenges.

At the heart of extensible programming lies the definition of functions. Python supports both mandatory and optional parameters, keyword arguments, and even allows for arbitrary lists of arguments. Regardless of whether you're just starting out in programming or you have years of experience, Python is accessible and straightforward to learn. This programming language is particularly welcoming for beginners, while still offering depth for those familiar with other programming environments. The subsequent sections provide an excellent foundation to embark on your Python programming journey! The vibrant community organizes numerous conferences and meetups for collaborative coding and sharing ideas. Additionally, Python's extensive documentation serves as a valuable resource, and the mailing lists keep users connected. The Python Package Index (PyPI) features a vast array of third-party modules that enrich the Python experience. With both the standard library and community-contributed modules, Python opens the door to limitless programming possibilities, making it a versatile choice for developers of all levels.

The Java™ Programming Language is designed as a versatile, concurrent, and strongly typed object-oriented language that utilizes a class-based structure. Typically, it is translated into bytecode that adheres to the specifications laid out in the Java Virtual Machine Specification. In this language, developers write source code in standard text files that conclude with the .java suffix. These source files are subsequently transformed into .class files through the use of the javac compiler. Unlike native processor code, a .class file comprises bytecodes, which serve as the machine language understood by the Java Virtual Machine (Java VM). To execute an application, the java launcher tool creates an instance of the Java Virtual Machine, allowing the compiled bytecode to run seamlessly. This process exemplifies the efficiency and portability that Java offers across various computing environments.

AutoIt v3 is a free scripting language that resembles BASIC and is intended for automating the Windows graphical user interface as well as performing general scripting tasks. It utilizes a mix of simulated keystrokes, mouse movements, and manipulation of windows and controls to perform automation tasks that are difficult or unreliable to achieve with other programming languages. After evaluating various editors, we determined that SciTE offered significant advantages and subsequently developed a customized Lexer for enhanced syntax highlighting and folding, leading to the creation of a dedicated installer named SciTE4AutoIt3. Originally, AutoIt was crafted for scenarios involving the rollout of PCs, enabling the reliable automation and configuration of numerous computers simultaneously. As it evolved, AutoIt transformed into a robust language that incorporates complex expressions, user-defined functions, loops, and various features that seasoned scripters would anticipate. Furthermore, its compact and self-contained nature allows AutoIt to function effortlessly on all Windows versions without the need for cumbersome runtime installations. This makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced developers looking to streamline their automation processes.

Delphi is the best IDE to create cross-platform natively compiled apps. Are you ready to create the best UIs in your life? Our VCL framework for Windows (FMX) visual framework to create cross-platform user interfaces provides the foundation for beautiful, intuitive user interfaces that work on all platforms: Windows, macOS and iOS. You can design your master UI layout once and then easily modify platform- or device-specific views without having to duplicate your design efforts. Use our visual designer to drag-and-drop visual or non-visual components. The LiveBindings Designer allows you to visually connect user interface elements with data sources. Live On-Device Preview allows you to validate your design and broadcast it to multiple devices simultaneously. Responsive design can be added to desktops, tablets, and phones with resolution-aware components. For a better user experience, use native controls that are platform-specific.

PowerShell serves as a versatile task automation and configuration management framework that operates across various platforms and is comprised of both a command-line shell and a scripting language. Distinct from typical shells that primarily handle text, PowerShell is founded on the .NET Common Language Runtime (CLR), allowing it to work with .NET objects instead. This core distinction introduces a range of innovative tools and techniques for automating tasks. Unlike conventional command-line interfaces, PowerShell cmdlets are specifically crafted to manipulate objects rather than mere text. An object represents organized information that transcends the simple string of characters displayed on your screen. The output generated by commands always includes additional metadata that can be leveraged when necessary. If you've utilized text-processing tools previously, you'll notice that their functionality differs when employed within PowerShell. Generally, there is no need for separate text-processing utilities to obtain specific information, as you can directly interact with segments of the data using the standard PowerShell object syntax. This capability enhances the user experience by allowing for more intuitive and powerful data manipulation.

LabVIEW provides a visual programming environment that allows you to effectively manage all components of your project, such as hardware setups, data collection, and troubleshooting processes. This visual interface streamlines the integration of measurement devices from various manufacturers, enables the representation of intricate logic within the diagram, facilitates the creation of data analysis algorithms, and allows for the development of tailored engineering user interfaces. By utilizing LabVIEW alongside NI DAQ hardware, users can construct bespoke measurement systems that enable the visualization and analysis of real-world signals, empowering them to make informed, data-driven choices. Additionally, LabVIEW in conjunction with NI or third-party hardware allows for the automation of product validation, ensuring that stringent time-to-market and performance standards are met. With LabVIEW, it is possible to devise adaptable testing applications that coordinate multiple instruments while also crafting user interfaces that enhance efficiency in manufacturing tests and reduce operational expenses. Moreover, LabVIEW accelerates the process of developing industrial machinery and intelligent devices, creating opportunities for innovation and efficiency. Ultimately, this powerful tool equips engineers with the capabilities to optimize their projects and achieve superior results.

Nix offers a distinctive methodology for managing packages and configuring systems. It enables the creation of systems that are not only reproducible but also declarative and dependable. By building packages in isolation, Nix guarantees that they are reproducible and free from hidden dependencies, meaning a package that functions properly on one machine will operate identically on another. Additionally, Nix simplifies the sharing of development and build environments across various projects, regardless of the programming languages or tools involved. One of its key features is the prevention of one package's installation or upgrade from disrupting the functionality of others. This capability includes options to revert to earlier versions, ensuring that no package enters an inconsistent state during the upgrade process. By functioning as a purely functional package manager, Nix treats packages as immutable values similar to those in purely functional programming languages like Haskell, where they are constructed by functions devoid of side effects and remain unchanged once built. Consequently, this approach promotes greater reliability and consistency within software environments.

Cascading Style Sheets, commonly known as CSS, serve as a style sheet language that web developers employ to organize the structure of HTML and other components within a website. Renowned for its prevalence, CSS ranks among the most widely utilized languages across the Internet. It is crucial for style sheets to function effectively that your markup remains free of mistakes. To conveniently rectify markup errors, utilizing a tool like HTML Tidy can be beneficial. This utility not only cleans up the markup but also enhances its readability and ease of editing. I highly suggest that you frequently apply Tidy to any markup you are working on, as it proves to be highly effective in refining content generated by authoring tools that might have inconsistent practices. Each style property is initiated by the property's name, followed by a colon, and then the designated value for that property. When listing multiple style properties, it’s necessary to separate each one with a semicolon to clearly distinguish one from another. In essence, adopting best practices with tools like Tidy can significantly streamline the process of web development and improve overall code quality.

Component Pascal is a versatile programming language that draws inspiration from Pascal, Modula-2, and Oberon. Its key characteristics include a block structure, modular design, the ability for separate compilation, static typing with rigorous type checking even across module boundaries, type extension with associated methods, dynamic module loading, and automated garbage collection. The aspect of type extension allows Component Pascal to function as an object-oriented language. In this context, an object is defined as a variable representing an abstract data type that comprises private data (its state) along with procedures that manipulate this data. These abstract data types are defined using extensible records. Component Pascal effectively encompasses the essential concepts of object-oriented programming while leveraging the established terminology of imperative languages, thus reducing the complexity of similar concepts. Its commitment to complete type safety, coupled with the necessity for a dynamic object model, further positions Component Pascal as a component-oriented programming language. Ultimately, this combination of features fosters a robust environment for developing modular and maintainable software applications.

Kotlin is designed for ease of use, allowing you to develop robust applications right from the start. It seamlessly integrates with the Java ecosystem, enabling you to leverage your preferred JVM frameworks and libraries. You can share your application logic across web, mobile, and desktop platforms while ensuring a native experience for users. This approach not only saves time but also provides unlimited access to platform-specific features. Kotlin boasts strong community support and a rapidly expanding global network of contributors. With an extensive ecosystem filled with various community libraries, assistance is readily available—whether through community resources or direct inquiries to the Kotlin team. For mobile app development on both iOS and Android, Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile serves as an SDK, merging the advantages of cross-platform and native application creation. By maintaining a unified codebase for essential components like networking, data storage, and analytics, you can streamline the development process for your Android and iOS applications. This ultimately enhances productivity and fosters innovation in your projects.

Dynamic, adaptable, and efficient, PHP supports a wide range of applications, including personal blogs and the most visited sites globally. The PHP development team has just released PHP version 8.0.20, making it readily available for users. Moreover, when navigating the PHP.net website, you don't even need to locate a search box to find the information you seek promptly. Instead, you can take advantage of concise PHP.net URLs to reach specific pages directly, enhancing your browsing experience. This streamlined access allows developers and users alike to engage more effectively with PHP resources.

Visual Basic, an object-oriented programming language created by Microsoft, allows for the rapid and straightforward development of type-safe applications within the .NET framework. It emphasizes enhancing the capabilities of the Visual Basic Runtime (microsoft.visualbasic.dll) for .NET Core, marking the first iteration of Visual Basic that is tailored specifically for this platform. Future updates are anticipated to incorporate elements of the Visual Basic Runtime that rely on WinForms. The .NET framework itself is a versatile and open-source development environment designed for the creation of various types of applications. Regardless of the application type, the code and project files maintain a consistent appearance and functionality. This uniformity ensures that developers can leverage the same runtime, application programming interfaces (APIs), and language features across all their projects. A Visual Basic application is constructed using standard components, where a solution includes one or more projects, and each project can consist of multiple assemblies, which are in turn compiled from several source files. Overall, this structure enables developers to efficiently manage and build complex applications.

Engaging in Swift programming is both enjoyable and interactive, as its syntax is not only concise but also highly expressive, incorporating modern features that developers appreciate. Designed with safety in mind, Swift enables the creation of software that operates at remarkable speeds. This programming language is the culmination of cutting-edge research into language design, paired with extensive experience in developing for Apple platforms. The use of named parameters is facilitated by a clear syntax, enhancing the readability and maintainability of APIs in Swift. A noteworthy convenience is the omission of semi-colons, allowing for a more streamlined coding experience. Additionally, inferred types contribute to a cleaner codebase and reduce the likelihood of errors, while modules eliminate the need for headers and create organized namespaces. To effectively cater to various international languages and even emojis, Swift strings are Unicode-compliant and utilize a UTF-8 encoding for optimized performance across diverse applications. Moreover, writing concurrent code becomes straightforward with intuitive built-in keywords that delineate asynchronous behavior, enhancing both code clarity and reliability. This combination of features makes Swift an appealing choice for developers aiming to create efficient and robust applications.

Eiffel represents a highly effective methodology for creating successful object-oriented software systems. This approach minimizes costs associated with development, debugging, and maintenance, enabling you to identify and resolve issues before they escalate. As a result, you can launch high-quality products more quickly than your rivals. Its simplicity enhances various aspects, including understanding, maintenance, reuse, and extension of the software. Uniquely, Eiffel integrates analysis, design, implementation, and maintenance within a unified framework. Additionally, systems developed with Eiffel are easily portable across major industry platforms. It is rooted in a few fundamental concepts from computer science and software engineering. The Eiffel Method ensures that all documentation for products at different stages is consolidated into a single document that offers multiple perspectives. It is specifically designed to articulate the outcomes of the Eiffel Methodology. The framework includes features that may not be present in competing technologies, such as exception handling grounded in software specifications rather than relying on ad hoc try/catch mechanisms. As a result, it is widely acclaimed for being both the simplest and most comprehensive implementation of object-oriented principles. By adopting Eiffel, developers can enhance their productivity and software quality significantly.

IronPython serves as an open-source version of the Python language, seamlessly integrated with the .NET framework. This enables IronPython to access both .NET and Python libraries, allowing other .NET languages to effortlessly invoke Python code. Enhance your development process with the interactive features of Python Tools for Visual Studio, which provide a more engaging environment for .NET and Python development. As a valuable asset to the .NET ecosystem, IronPython empowers Python developers to leverage the extensive capabilities of .NET. Additionally, .NET developers can utilize IronPython as a dynamic and efficient scripting language for embedding, testing, or developing new applications from the ground up. The Common Language Runtime (CLR) is an excellent foundation for programming language creation, and the Dynamic Language Runtime (DLR) further enhances its suitability for dynamic languages. Moreover, the extensive .NET base class libraries and presentation foundation offer developers a wealth of functionality and power. However, to take full advantage of IronPython, it's essential that your existing Python code is adjusted to align with IronPython's syntax and standard libraries. By doing so, developers can fully harness the benefits of this powerful integration.

Scheme serves as a versatile general-purpose programming language that operates at a high level. It facilitates various operations on complex data structures such as strings, lists, and vectors, in addition to handling traditional data types like numbers and characters. Although often associated with symbolic computation, Scheme's extensive range of data types and its adaptable control structures enhance its versatility for numerous applications. Developers have utilized Scheme for a wide array of projects, including text editors, compilers, operating systems, graphic applications, expert systems, numerical computations, financial analysis software, virtual reality frameworks, and virtually any other conceivable application. Learning Scheme is relatively accessible due to its reliance on a limited set of syntactic forms and semantic principles, and the interactive features of most implementations promote hands-on experimentation. However, achieving a deep understanding of Scheme can be quite challenging, as its complexities unfold with deeper exploration. As a result, practitioners often find themselves continually learning and evolving their skills within this rich programming environment.

Curious about the widespread appeal of Ruby? Its advocates describe it as a beautifully crafted, artistic language, while also highlighting its practicality and usefulness. Since being publicly launched in 1995, Ruby has garnered a loyal following of programmers from all corners of the globe. By 2006, Ruby had reached a level of widespread acceptance, with user groups emerging in major cities around the world and Ruby-focused conferences attracting large crowds. The Ruby-Talk mailing list, which serves as the main forum for discussions regarding the language, reached an impressive average of 200 messages daily during that year. However, in more recent times, the volume of messages has decreased as the community has diversified into numerous smaller groups. Ruby consistently ranks among the top 10 in various indices evaluating the growth and popularity of programming languages globally, such as the TIOBE index. A significant factor contributing to this rise is the increasing prominence of software developed in Ruby, most notably the Ruby on Rails web framework, which has played a pivotal role in its adoption by developers. The combination of elegance and functionality continues to attract new users to the Ruby community.

Pascal holds greater significance today than it has in the past, with modern implementations like Oxygene offering a wealth of capabilities. Oxygene stands out as a versatile programming language, empowering developers to build an extensive range of projects across diverse platforms. It achieves this by integrating a mix of language features that simplify the development process, incorporating fundamental object-oriented principles common in contemporary languages, such as classes that encompass methods, properties, and events. Additionally, it includes advanced, specialized features that facilitate particular development tasks, including the creation of safe, multi-threaded applications, many of which are exclusive to Oxygene. All these features are rooted in Object Pascal's principles, maintaining the language's design philosophies that ensure Pascal remains accessible, readable, and easy to learn. As an object-oriented programming language, the majority of Oxygene code is encapsulated within "classes," allowing for organized and efficient code management. This modern approach not only honors the legacy of Pascal but also adapts it for today's programming challenges.

The latest iteration of the Pascal programming language merges the traditional ease of classic Pascal with numerous contemporary enhancements and the extensive features offered by the Microsoft .NET Framework. It comes with a free, user-friendly, and robust integrated development environment (IDE) that includes a built-in form designer for the swift creation of Windows desktop applications. You can easily download the most recent version of PascalABC.NET, which also features this form designer. This version introduces multiple enhancements to the Pascal language, such as the foreach operator, in-block variable definitions, automatic type inference in variable declarations, simplified unit syntax, method implementations within classes and records, a new operator for object construction, anonymous classes, auto-classes, and support for BigIntegers. It also incorporates cutting-edge programming features found in modern languages, including n-dimensional dynamic arrays, generics, interfaces, operator overloading, exception handling, garbage collection, and lambda expressions. The IDE is equipped with an integrated debugger, an IntelliSense system for code completion, templates for rapid coding, and automatic code formatting capabilities to enhance developer productivity. Additionally, this comprehensive environment fosters a seamless coding experience, making it ideal for both novice and experienced programmers.

TypeScript introduces enhanced syntax to JavaScript, facilitating a more seamless connection with your development environment. This allows for early detection of errors within the editor. The code written in TypeScript is ultimately transformed into JavaScript, making it executable in various environments, including web browsers, Node.js, Deno, and mobile applications. With its capability to comprehend JavaScript, TypeScript employs type inference, enabling excellent tooling while minimizing the need for additional coding. In the 2020 State of JS survey, 78% of respondents reported using TypeScript, with a remarkable 93% expressing their intention to continue its use. The prevalent type of mistakes made by developers are often categorized as type errors, where an unexpected value type is encountered in a given context. Such errors can stem from trivial mistakes like typos, misunderstandings of a library's API, incorrect assumptions regarding runtime behavior, or other forms of oversight. Ultimately, utilizing TypeScript can significantly enhance code quality and developer productivity by reducing these common pitfalls.

Scala seamlessly integrates both object-oriented and functional programming paradigms into a single, elegant high-level language. With its static type system, Scala minimizes the likelihood of errors in intricate applications, while its compatibility with JVM and JavaScript allows developers to create efficient systems that can leverage extensive libraries. The Scala compiler is adept in managing static types, meaning that in most instances, you don't need to specify variable types; its robust type inference handles this automatically. Structural data types in Scala are represented by case classes, which automatically provide well-defined methods for toString, equals, and hashCode, in addition to enabling deconstruction through pattern matching. Moreover, in Scala, functions are treated as first-class citizens, allowing for the creation of anonymous functions using a streamlined syntax. This versatility makes Scala an appealing choice for developers seeking a language that combines the best of both programming worlds.

Mercury represents an advanced version of the BASIC programming language that maintains full compatibility with Microsoft Visual Basic.NET™, while expanding its capabilities and opportunities. This innovative tool enables you to enhance your existing VB.NET projects, allowing you to utilize your Visual Basic™ expertise to develop applications for a wide array of modern platforms. Additionally, you have the flexibility to incorporate Mercury code alongside any of the other five Elements languages within a single project if you wish! The integration of the Mercury language within our development environments is seamless and efficient. You can create your projects using our intelligent yet efficient IDEs, Water for Windows or Fire for Mac, which feature project templates, code completion, and comprehensive debugging tools across all platforms, among other sophisticated development functionalities. Moreover, Mercury ensures smooth integration with Visual Studio™ versions 2017, 2019, and 2022. With the Elements framework, all programming languages are treated equally, allowing you to seamlessly blend Mercury with C#, Swift, Java, Oxygene, and Go in the same project, fostering an environment of versatility and creativity in software development. This flexibility opens doors to new possibilities, enabling developers to choose the best language for each task.

Small Basic is a unique programming language specifically designed to assist students in making the shift from block-based coding to text-based programming. By introducing the core components of syntax-driven languages in a user-friendly way, Small Basic equips learners with the necessary abilities and self-assurance to progress to more advanced languages like Java and C#. Additionally, it allows users to create applications for a variety of platforms including Kinect, Lego Mindstorm, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Oculus Rift. With a welcoming environment and a straightforward language enriched by a vibrant array of libraries, Small Basic enables you to bring your programs and games to life with just a few lines of code. You can quickly embark on developing your own games, sharing them with friends who can easily import and run your published creations on their own devices. Furthermore, using the Silverlight player, there’s an option to showcase your games on personal blogs and websites, allowing them to be played directly in the browser for a wider audience to enjoy. In this way, Small Basic not only fosters creativity but also encourages collaboration among budding programmers.

Perl is an exceptionally versatile and feature-rich programming language that has been evolving for more than three decades. It operates seamlessly on more than 100 platforms, ranging from portable devices to mainframes, making it an excellent choice for both quick prototyping and extensive development endeavors. The term "Perl" actually encompasses a family of languages, with "Raku," previously referred to as "Perl 6," being a distinct member that boasts its own dedicated development team. Despite the emergence of Raku, it does not considerably influence the ongoing advancement of the original Perl language. Perl is equipped with robust tools designed for text processing, which render it particularly effective in handling HTML, XML, and various markup and natural languages. Additionally, Perl is capable of managing encrypted web data, which includes facilitating e-commerce transactions, thus showcasing its reliability and comprehensive utility in modern programming tasks. This versatility allows developers to leverage Perl in a wide array of applications, ensuring its relevance in today’s technology landscape.