1. Choose a programming language. Pythonand Turtle Graphics are good starter languages. they are very straightforward and easy to learn. Also, there is a module called Pygame available that makes handling windows a breeze. Another programming language for a beginner to try is Kids Programming Language, or KPL's new version, called Phrogram. Don't be put off by KPL's name! Once you learn the basic concepts of programming, you can then take those ideas into any programming language you choose. Be aware however, that KPL and Phrogram are tightly integrated with Microsoft Windows, and therefore not very practical for teaching portable programming techniques. Perl is also very good for learning programming, and it's really useful.
2. If your high-school math was not too weak you have some aptitude for computers, you should start with C. All languages that are ever actually used are derivatives of C, and it is also a very elegant language, easy to learn. From C it's a smooth transition to C++, and then to Java and assorted.
3. Find a tutorial for the programming language. Be sure that the tutorial is aimed at non-programmers if it's your first one.
4. Try to find someone you know that knows how to program. Online tutorials are nice, but they can be frustrating at times if you can't get answers to specific questions.
5. Keep at it. Programming can be the most frustrating thing in the world, but it can also be the most satisfying thing. Don't get down if you don't get a concept--programming is a very abstract thing to learn, and if you can't figure out something, take a break and come back later.
6. Go beyond boring textbook examples. Try to find problems that really interest you. Try to solve them in small steps. Don't be afraid to read help files to learn what is possible in solving your problem.
7. Try adding options and features gradually.
Tips
* When you learn something new, it is very helpful to try it out, and then change some things to make sure you have the concept down.
* When choosing a programming language, it is important to consider what you'll be learning it for. For example, if you want to go into website development, try out Python (Django is very fun!), PHP or Java/Javascript. If you want to become a professional programer, C++ and Java are must.
* If you take a break from programming, be sure to practice every now and then. After all, it is a programming language, and as it is with any language, you will forget it if you don't use it.
* Join the Association for Computing Machinery and make serious use of their Professional Development Center. It has hundreds of free, step-by-step tutorials, though you must be a member to use them. Student and discounted rates are available.
* For most people, programming something that intrests them or that they can use will be much more interesting. Use Google, you can find a tutorial or a source code for almost any project in any language.
* Don't fear open sources. Open sources were put in place for a reason, to learn. Why re-invent the wheel when you can make it better? Just make sure you understand what you're programming.
* References are there to help you. Don't be ashamed if you don't remember everything by heart, that comes with time. The important thing is knowing the various possibilies of functions within a language and knowing where to go to find out exactly how to use them.
