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I don't consider simple mathematical algorithms as "real" programs, nor do I consider simple text adventure games real programs either. I donno if anything got

by klrr 13y ago

I don't consider simple mathematical algorithms as "real" programs, nor do I consider simple text adventure games real programs either. I donno if anything got in the way with Python and Scheme, I just wasen't able to write anything useful or fun so it got very boring. In fact, learning Racket using "How to Design Programs" might have got me started much quicker, but it was already too basic I needed some more challenging while not being too difficult. When I think about it, Scheme is probably a great option for beginners. It's simple and functional, got a great development environment for beginners (Dr. Racket) and two great beginner books(SICP, HTDP2). Also, since it's not purely functional the user who learn it won't need to learn abstract concepts like monads to do useful stuff in it. :-)

abecedarius 13y ago
It sounds like the docs you had focused on functions and console I/O and never got to graphics/mouse/web. The lessons of How to Design Programs are really well done, in the sense of reliably taking people from beginner to real programmer, yet everyone who's offered on opinion to me found it kind of tedious. I get the impression it's great for classrooms and there's a need for a resource like it aimed more at the self-motivated. Maybe that's http://realmofracket.com/ http://realmofracket.com/