What Are Scripting Languages? (And Why Should you learn one)
Learning a scripting language may open up new personal and professional opportunities.
Discover the differences
between server-side scripting languages and the pros of learning them to decide
if this is a good path for you. Scripting languages can be an effective
tool for programmers, engineers, and other developers to create systems and
software. Learning a scripting language is an excellent introduction to coding
and programming. They are relatively easy to learn and can be an effective
jumping-off point to pursue your hobbies or career interests further. Technical
computer users ranging from system administrators to professional programmers
and dedicated computer enthusiasts employ scripting languages simply because
they save so much time. The learning curve is a lot shallower than other
languages and this allows people to get productive quickly, without having to
deal with a develop/compile/debugging cycle. This frees them up to automate away
the drudgery and work on the things that really matter.
What is a scripting language?
People often refer to scripting
languages and programming languages interchangeably. However, they are not the
same. All scripting languages are programming languages, but not all
programming languages are scripting languages. Programming languages are a way
for coders to communicate with computers using compiled languages—source code
compiled to convert into machine code. Scripting languages are a type of
programming language. They are interpreted rather than requiring compilation.
These are languages designed for specific runtime environments to provide
additional functions, integrate complex systems, and communicate with other
programming languages. One example is JavaScript, which you can use to display
messages, perform calculations, and integrate elements of user interfaces for
web pages.
A scripting language is a programming
language that is interpreted. It is translated into machine code when the code
is run, rather than beforehand. Scripting languages are often used for short
scripts over full computer programs. JavaScript, Python, and Ruby are all
examples of scripting languages. All scripting languages are programming
languages, but not all programming languages are scripting languages. Scripting
languages in essence, are a series of commands that are able to be executed
without the need for compiling. Scripting languages employ a sophisticated
technique to bring codes to a runtime environment. They use a program known as
an interpreter to translate commands and are directly interpreted from source
code, not requiring a compilation step. Other programming languages might need
a compiler for the purpose of translating commands into machine code before
they are able to execute those commands. In key ways, scripting languages are
created for specific runtime environments and they are able to automate some
level of the code implementation. Scripting languages are pretty much
modernizations of a system that previously made use of compilers to interpret
inputs. Each scripting language provides a number of built-in functions that
help you perform some routine actions, such as converting numerical values to
strings and vice versa (C#Script and C++Script have the same functions as
JScript, since these languages are based on JScript). Normally, the sets of
predefined functions of different scripting languages are similar to each
other, with few exceptions (for instance, DelphiScript does not have an
analogue of VBScript’s split function). However, the difference in predefined
functions is negligible, since most of predefined functions are simple and you
can easily create their analogues in another language. Also, TestComplete
provides an extensive set of scripting objects whose functionality covers the
functionality of predefined functions. They can be used in any project,
regardless of its scripting language.
Benefits
of learning a scripting language
Coding
is an in-demand career skill, so many employers are willing to pay employees
with coding and programming skills higher wages, according to Rasmussen
University. Beyond the job opportunities that learning a scripting language may
bring, several other benefits may surprise you:
·
You
can develop stronger logical thinking skills. Learning a scripting
language helps you develop problem-solving and analytical skills while teaching
you how to tackle complex problems by breaking them into more manageable steps.
·
You
can unlock your creativity. Have you ever wanted to design a game or
an app? Once you learn a scripting language, you’ll be able to start creating
all kinds of projects that you’re passionate about for work or for your own
pleasure.
·
You
can become more resilient. Troubleshooting can be an integral part of
using a scripting language. If you fail on your first try, you have the
opportunity to troubleshoot, find solutions, and persist.
·
You
can automate tasks. Not only will you better understand task
automation as a concept, but you'll also be able to execute the steps to
automate repetitive tasks to simplify your own life.
·
You
can better understand how technology works. In today's landscape,
technology is everywhere. When you learn coding and scripting languages, you'll
have a deeper understanding of how the devices and technology you use in
everyday work.
Uses
for scripting languages
The
functions and applications of scripting languages vary based on the type of
scripting language you're using. There are many uses for scripting languages,
including:
·
Task automation: Programmers
often use scripting languages to automate task execution within a runtime
environment. This involves writing code that allows individuals to use software
to complete repetitive, predictable and straightforward tasks, such as paying
bills from an account and sending notifications via email.
·
Content display for web
applications: Programmers use scripting to ensure programs run
correctly on the server and display the functional and interactive content on a
webpage, such as images and links.
·
Command sequences: Many programmers
apply scripting languages to condense command sequences, allowing the program
to run faster and improving the functionality of parent applications.
·
Data extraction: Programmers use
scripting languages to pull data from data sets, such as in data analysis,
research and statistics.
·
Dynamic web apps: Programmers
use a variety of scripting languages to power webpages and applications on the
server side with efficient code and clear instructions for displaying dynamic
content, which is data that changes based on the user's behavior or
preferences.
·
System administration: When
administrators want to generate and pull data, guide user queries and improve
systems, they use scripting languages.
·
Game modding: Game
modification creators use scripting languages to make custom content for games
with unique functionality and designs that improve regular gameplay.
Potential
job opportunities
When
you learn scripting languages, you typically become more eligible for a variety
of job opportunities that require this skill. A range of professionals use
scripting language in their daily tasks. A few examples of roles you might
pursue include:
·
Web
developer: You’ll create and maintain websites as a web developer. You'll likely
use a mix of client- and server-side scripting languages to create functional
web pages.
·
Systems
administrator: In this
role,
you'll analyze and assess systems and servers to pinpoint and troubleshoot
errors and issues. You'll also update security, install programs, and maintain
networks. You may use a scripting language to run commands, generate data, and
automate processes.
·
Programmer
analyst: In this position, you'll mainly be designing, maintaining, and
testing computer systems and software to ensure they're functional for users
and operating correctly. You may use scripting languages to create commands,
automate tasks that display content, and ensure that systems are displaying
content correctly.
·
Application
developer: As an app developer, you'll design, code, update, and maintain
software applications. You'll use a scripting language (or several) to ensure
that all the interactive elements and content are working properly and
accessible for users.
·
Software
engineer: As a software
engineer,
you'll primarily develop and maintain software and systems, including networks,
computer systems, and specialized software for technology like medical or
mobile devices. You might use scripting languages to create functional
interfaces, automate processes, and run tests.
Discover
your earning potential: Common salaries
As
someone who knows a scripting language, your earning potential will vary widely
depending on the job you ultimately choose to pursue. The average for many of
the careers in the computer science industry is $97,430, according to the US
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Your level of education and experience, the
type of job, and the scripting language you’re proficient in will influence
your salary. For example, according to Indeed, the median entry-level salary
for Python programmers in the US is $108,231 in 2022. ZipRecruiter estimates
that the average entry-level salary for software engineers and developers with
Ruby skills in the US is $83,692
Engage
in the future: Industry outlook
Technology
is a rapidly growing field, with spending on IT projected to increase to $4.5
trillion in 2022, a 5.5 percent increase compared to 2021, according to Gartner.
From an employment standpoint, the BLS estimates that jobs in computer and IT-related
occupations will grow 15 percent between 2020 and 2030, a faster-than-average
growth rate for all occupations
Types
of scripting languages
As
you research possible scripting languages to learn, you’ll see that the
different types fall into two main categories: server-side scripting language
and client-side scripting language. The main difference is that server-side
scripting gets processed through a server and client-side scripting runs
scripts on client machines using browsers without interacting with the
server.
Examples
of scripting languages: server-side
Server-side
scripting works in the back end—what happens behind the scenes that website
users don't see but makes it possible for them to use the site. You can
customize web pages and create dynamic websites with these scripting languages.
Common server-side scripting languages include:
·
PHP: Popular
for use on the web
·
ASP.net: A
web application language that Microsoft developed
·
Node.js: A
scripting language you can use on multiple platforms including Unix, Windows,
Mac, and Linux
·
Java: A
scripting language used in just about everything, including consumer Bluetooth
devices and applications used by NASA
·
Ruby: A
dynamic scripting language that focuses on simplicity
·
Python: A
popular language that uses shorter code, making it easier for beginners to
learn
Client-side
scripting languages
Client-side
scripting typically works in the front end, with script visible to users. It
can help reduce server load and is often used to change content or examine
users' forms for mistakes before submitting them. Common client-side scripting
languages include:
·
HTML: A
language fundamental to providing the framework for websites and building
blocks for web programming
·
CSS: A
language that helps you design graphic elements to enhance web applications'
appearance
·
JavaScript: A
language that creates highly functional modern web browsers, including
Mozilla's SpiderMonkey and Chrome's V8 engine
Real-world
uses for scripting language
Real-life
systems are made up of multiple programs all working together. Scripts can be
used to help each separate program work together. For example, if you work as a
game developer, scripts allow you to share the flow logic. This lets you
specify various routes of program execution with other professionals and
artists who don't necessarily have (or need to have) the same high-level,
complex coding skills. Scripting languages are used in:
·
System
administration
·
Multimedia
and games
·
Web
applications on the server and client-side
·
Report
generation
·
Document
and text processing
·
Writing
plugins and extensions for existing programs and applications like Firefox
Different
scripting languages have different capabilities. For example, you might use PHP
to manage cookies and manipulate databases. Or you might use Ruby to write code
for web applications designed to run on specific operating systems. A variety
of industries and businesses use scripting languages, including some big names,
like the following:
·
Node.js
is used in the real world for the apps of big-name companies like Paypal,
Netflix, eBay, Uber, and LinkedIn.
·
PHP
is popular for use by global websites, including Etsy, WordPress, Facebook,
Slack, and Wikipedia.
·
Ruby
is commonly used on applications like Hulu, MyFitnessPal, Goodreads, and Airbnb.
·
Python
is used by well-known companies such as Netflix, Google, and Goldman Sachs.
Required
skills and education
One
of the pros of learning a scripting language is that these open-source
languages are easy to learn, simple to work with, and relatively fast to
develop, making this a good starting point even if you have no previous
experience. If you're interested in going into coding professionally, it helps
to have some basic skills, including:
·
Curiosity
·
The
desire to solve problems
·
Excellent
communication
·
The
ability to work as part of a team
·
Patience
and positivity
·
Accountability
To
get started learning scripting languages, you don’t need any formal education.
However, if you intend to pursue a career using a scripting language, you may
need to pursue either a degree, certificate, boot camp, or another type of
training. According to the BLS, most common careers using scripting languages
typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
0 Comments