My probably-unpopular tech opinion

I think learning how to code is still worth it, even with AI writing more and more code.

But I don't think beginners should spend 6 months memorizing syntax anymore.

Learn how computers actually work.

Learn how APIs work.

Learn databases.

Learn networking.

Learn how to debug.

Then use AI to help you write the boring stuff.

Because honestly, knowing what the code should do is becoming more important than being able to type every line yourself.

Maybe I'm wrong though

What's your opinion?

If you were starting programming from zero in 2026, what would you learn first?

Debugging is the one I'd put first, because reading a stack trace and bisecting a failing request taught me more than any syntax course did.

I’d start with one language, basic data structures, Git, APIs, and a small project as early as possible. AI can help with syntax, but beginners still need to understand why something breaks and how the parts connect. Otherwise it’s easy to generate code you can’t maintain.

I'd say understanding architecture is one of the most important things now. Also keeping up with new tools and actually trying them out on real projects

Understanding how things connect and being able to debug when the AI gets it wrong is probably more valuable now.