The next time you’re thinking of picking up a new coding language, why not consider something a bit more niche?
When it comes to selecting a programming language to add to your skillset, it is common to look to one of the more obvious examples, such as Python, Java, Ruby or Pearl. While you can’t really go wrong with any of those, if you truly want a challenge, why not commit to learning a more niche language?
If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry, we have you covered, with five more programming languages you can use to impress your colleagues and friends.
LOLCODE
It should be noted that not all coding languages are created equal. Where some are of infinite use to projects, particularly in the STEM space, others such as LOLCODE, while still being useful, were designed with a sense of humour. An experimental and esoteric language, LOLCODE takes inspiration from internet memes, often of the feline variety and it is a really fun, creative and alternative way to code. It is perfect for the coder who has become bored with the more traditional alternatives.
While it isn’t going to be used for high-profile projects that require a more serious take, it can be used for hackathons, fun coding events such as capture the flag tournaments and teaching others the fundamentals of programming.
LaTeX
Briefly moving away from the more ridiculous, LaTeX is a unique, interesting and particularly difficult programming language designed for people who frequently deal with number-heavy projects and complex data.
It runs on a typesetting system, creates professional documents, has the ability to outline information in an aesthetically pleasing way and is popular among people who use lots of figures in their work, such as mathematicians, scientists, researchers and academics.
FALSE
An esoteric language created in 1993 by Wouter van Oortmerssen, FALSE is an experimental and creative design that still manages to be practical, despite its small size and non-traditional leanings.
Described by the creator himself as having two particular objectives, it was built to confuse everyone with an obfuscated syntax and to be a powerful language with the tiniest of implementations. He did just that as it has a compiler executable of just 1024 bytes.
Designed to be concise and challenging, it can be used to teach people the basics of coding, as well as to practice new techniques using a unique model. Though typically, due to its complexity, it is usually not easy for newbies to pick up, so if you really want to learn FALSE you will have to commit.
Alice
Alice, which pays homage to Lewis Carroll’s character from the classic novels, is designed for younger programmers. However, if you are in a role that involves educating young people, it is one you should consider learning, so you can encourage their STEM studies.
An innovative block-based programming environment, Alice is used to help children as young as eight, all the way up to a secondary school level grasp the concepts needed to understand object-oriented programming and the general principles of coding.
It enables you to create animations, build interactive narratives and program simple games in 3D, and encourages an exploration of logical and computational thinking skills.
Piet
Esoteric programming language Piet is another fun, creative and aesthetically pleasing way to work with what is often cold, clinical data. Named after Piet Mondrian, a pioneering figure in geometric abstract art, Piet’s programmes actually appear as abstract paintings using 20 distinct colours.
Designed in 2001 by David Morgan-Mar, as a colourful alternative to conventional programming that depends on text-based coding, its strengths include higher degrees of creativity and engagement. However, weaknesses include a steep learning curve that can make it a challenging skill to acquire.
So, did any of the above novel programming languages jump out at you as a skill you would like to incorporate into your work or hobbies?
If so, make sure to make use of the online resources available, such as free courses, tutorials and in many cases, the broad communities of other coders eager to share their insights, observations and ambitions. Groups on websites such as Reddit can be a great place to meet people skilled in the more obscure languages.
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