Think coding is tough? Wait until you try these four programming languages! But don’t worry—we’ve compiled 10 proven ways to conquer them while you're still in high school. 

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, learning how to code in high school can give students a serious competitive edge. Mastering programming languages not only sharpens skills in problem-solving and logical thinking, but also enhances creativity and innovation. Further, coding is a skill that is increasingly in demand for college applications, internships, and private industry. For students aspiring to build strong technical profiles,  learning difficult coding languages can set them apart on college applications and in future careers.

Below, we explore 4 of the hardest coding languages and offer 10 ways students can master them while still in high school. 

4 of the Hardest Coding Languages

1. C++

Why it’s hard:

C++ is a powerful, high-performance language, but its complexity lies in its combination of high-level and low-level capabilities. Managing memory manually, dealing with pointers, and understanding object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts like inheritance and polymorphism can make it overwhelming for beginners. C++ also requires meticulous attention to syntax, and small errors can lead to frustrating bugs.

Why you should learn it:

C++ is widely used in systems programming, game development, and high-performance applications. Understanding C++ builds a strong foundation in core programming concepts, especially algorithms and data structures, which are essential for tackling complex computational problems.

2. Rust

Why it’s hard:

Rust prioritizes memory safety without relying on a garbage collector, which means students must manage memory manually while avoiding common errors like null pointer dereferencing and data races. Rust’s strict compiler can be a source of frustration for newcomers, requiring a deep understanding of its ownership model, lifetimes, and borrowing rules.

Why you should learn it:

Rust is rapidly growing in popularity due to its combination of speed, memory safety, and concurrency. It’s ideal for building reliable, high-performance software, making it a valuable skill for system programming and even web development. If you're interested in projects involving blockchain or embedded systems, Rust is a language worth mastering.

3. Haskell

Why it’s hard:

Haskell is a functional programming language, which means it requires a different way of thinking compared to procedural or object-oriented languages. The language relies heavily on abstract mathematical concepts and eliminates side effects, making it difficult to grasp at first. 

Why you should learn it:

Haskell encourages thinking in a more mathematical and declarative way, which can be highly beneficial for students interested in research, AI, or machine learning. 

4. Lisp

Why it’s hard:

Lisp's syntax is quite different from conventional languages like Python or Java, relying heavily on parentheses and emphasizing symbolic computation. For students used to more common programming languages, adjusting to Lisp’s structure can be disorienting.

Why you should learn it:

Lisp has been influential in the development of artificial intelligence and has a long history in computing. Its flexibility in handling symbolic data and its ability to treat code as data (and vice versa) offers a deeper understanding of programming principles, making it a valuable tool for those interested in AI or complex algorithmic research.

10 Ways to Master These Languages in High School

1. Online Courses

Many platforms offer specialized coding courses. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and edX provide classes on C++, Rust, Haskell, and Lisp. Many of these courses include hands-on projects, quizzes, and community support, making it easier to tackle tough concepts. edX has a course on “Introduction to Haskell” by the University of Glasgow, which provides a great foundation in functional programming.

2. Coding Bootcamps

Coding bootcamps offer intensive programs designed to teach programming skills quickly. Many bootcamps focus on tough languages like C++ or Rust and can accelerate a student’s learning. Codecademy, for instance, offers reasonably priced courses on C++ that are self-paced and won’t break the bank! 

3. After-School Coding Clubs

Many high schools offer coding clubs where students can work together to learn new languages. These clubs can be a collaborative space for tackling complex coding problems and building projects in languages like Rust or C++. Students can join national coding clubs, like Girls Who Code, or create their own club focused on advanced programming languages.

4. Summer Coding Programs

Summer camps provide immersive coding experiences and offer students a chance to learn difficult languages over several weeks. Veritas AI offers AI and coding-focused programs for high school students, where students can gain exposure to languages like Python.

5. Self-Study with Books and Tutorials

Sometimes self-study is just the way to go. This is often an effective way to learn coding languages, particularly for highly motivated students. Websites like LeetCode and Codewars provide coding challenges that strengthen problem-solving skills. Additionally, books can provide deep insights into difficult languages. Programming Rust is a highly recommended book for students interested in diving deep into Rust programming.

6. Participate in Competitions

Another excellent way to hone your skills is to enter coding competitions like hackathons or online challenges, which give students the chance to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. Many contests include challenges in tough languages like C++ or Rust, requiring students to think quickly and optimize their solutions. Google Code Jam and Codeforces contests would be great places to start! 

7. Mentorship Programs

Students can seek mentors who have professional experience in programming. A mentor can provide personalized guidance and feedback, helping students navigate difficult languages. Programs like Veritas AI’s fellowship pair students with experienced software developers, which can accelerate learning by providing answers to tough questions and offering support during challenging projects.

8. Enroll in College-Level Courses

Many high school students can enroll in college-level computer science courses through dual enrollment programs. This allows students to tackle difficult languages like Rust or Haskell in a structured academic setting. Some colleges offer online classes during the summer, which high school students can attend to earn credit and gain early exposure to advanced programming concepts.

9. Open Source Contributions

Contributing to open-source projects is one of the best ways to learn how to code. By working on real projects, students can gain hands-on experience with real-world programming problems. Open-source communities are often welcoming to beginners and provide opportunities to work with advanced languages like Rust or Lisp. Websites like GitHub have many open-source projects where students can contribute, often giving them access to a community of developers willing to provide feedback.

10. Join Science Fairs or Technology Exhibitions

Participating in science fairs or tech exhibitions is an excellent way to develop coding projects that use difficult programming languages. Students can showcase their work, whether it's an AI-based solution using Lisp or a robotics project powered by C++. Students can develop projects that they can showcase at regional science fairs or events like the Intel ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair).

Conclusion

Learning complex programming languages like C++, Rust, Haskell, and Lisp during high school may seem daunting, but it’s entirely achievable with the right strategies. Whether you’re taking online courses, participating in coding competitions, or contributing to open-source projects, high school students have a wealth of resources available to help them master these challenging yet rewarding languages. With dedication and the right tools, you can not only conquer these languages but also set yourself on a path to a successful career in tech. 

Image Source - VAI Logo