List of the Top 21 Programming Languages for Visual Studio Code in 2025

At the core of extensible programming is the concept of defining functions. Python facilitates this with mandatory and optional parameters, keyword arguments, and the capability to handle arbitrary lists of arguments. Whether you're a novice in programming or possess years of expertise, Python remains approachable and easy to grasp. This language is notably inviting for newcomers while still providing considerable depth for those experienced in other programming languages. The following sections lay a strong groundwork for anyone eager to start their Python programming adventure! The dynamic community actively organizes various conferences and meetups to foster collaborative coding and the exchange of ideas. Furthermore, the comprehensive documentation acts as an invaluable guide, while mailing lists help maintain user connections. The Python Package Index (PyPI) offers a wide selection of third-party modules that enhance the Python experience. With an extensive standard library alongside community-contributed modules, Python presents endless programming possibilities, making it an adaptable choice for developers at every skill level. Additionally, the thriving ecosystem encourages continuous learning and innovation among its users.

The Java™ Programming Language is crafted to be a flexible, concurrent, and strongly typed language that is oriented around objects and follows a class-based framework. It is usually converted into bytecode that complies with the guidelines established in the Java Virtual Machine Specification. Developers typically write their source code in plain text documents, which are designated with a .java extension. These source files are then compiled into .class files using the javac compiler. Unlike code meant for native processors, a .class file contains bytecodes that represent the machine language recognized by the Java Virtual Machine (Java VM). To run an application, the java launcher tool initiates an instance of the Java Virtual Machine, enabling the smooth execution of the compiled bytecode. This entire workflow illustrates the remarkable efficiency and portability that Java provides across a wide range of computing platforms, showcasing its adaptability in diverse programming environments. As a result, developers can rely on Java to create applications that function consistently regardless of the underlying system architecture.

PowerShell is a dynamic framework for task automation and configuration management that functions across multiple platforms, featuring both a command-line interface and a scripting language. Unlike standard shells that mainly focus on text processing, PowerShell is built on the .NET Common Language Runtime (CLR), which enables it to manage .NET objects directly. This fundamental difference unlocks a variety of advanced tools and methodologies for automating processes. In contrast to traditional command-line interfaces, PowerShell cmdlets are designed to work with objects instead of just text strings. An object encapsulates structured information that goes beyond the simple characters displayed on a monitor. Each command's output is accompanied by valuable metadata that can be utilized as needed. If you've previously worked with text-processing tools, you might observe a distinct difference in functionality when using PowerShell, as it typically eliminates the need for separate text-processing applications to extract specific data. This means you can seamlessly interact with different elements of your data using the native PowerShell object syntax, which significantly enhances the overall user experience. Furthermore, this capability not only simplifies data manipulation but also empowers users to perform complex operations with ease.

Cascading Style Sheets, or CSS, act as a style sheet language that web developers utilize to arrange the layout of HTML and other elements on a website. Renowned for its widespread use, CSS is one of the most commonly employed languages throughout the Internet. For style sheets to perform optimally, it is essential that your markup is devoid of errors. To easily correct markup issues, employing a utility such as HTML Tidy can prove advantageous. This tool not only tidies up the markup but also improves its clarity and makes it easier to modify. I strongly recommend using Tidy regularly on any markup you handle, as it is particularly effective in refining content produced by authoring tools that may have inconsistent formatting practices. Each style property begins with the property name, followed by a colon, and concludes with the specific value assigned to that property. When you have multiple style properties, it is important to separate each with a semicolon to ensure clear differentiation. In summary, embracing best practices with tools like Tidy can greatly enhance web development efficiency and elevate the quality of your code. Additionally, adopting such practices will ultimately contribute to a more maintainable and scalable web project in the long run.

PHP is a versatile, flexible, and highly efficient programming language that caters to a variety of applications, from personal blogs to some of the most trafficked websites in the world. Recently, the PHP development team launched version 8.0.20, which is now accessible to all users. Additionally, while exploring the PHP.net website, you can easily obtain the information you need without searching through a box; instead, you can utilize straightforward PHP.net URLs that guide you directly to specific sections. This straightforward navigation enhances the overall user experience, enabling both developers and casual users to interact with PHP resources more effectively and efficiently. Consequently, the improvements in accessibility and usability reflect the ongoing commitment to enhancing the PHP ecosystem.

TypeScript enhances JavaScript with improved syntax, creating a smoother integration with development environments, which helps in identifying errors early on within the editor. The TypeScript code is compiled into JavaScript, making it compatible with a wide range of platforms such as web browsers, Node.js, Deno, and mobile apps. Its understanding of JavaScript allows TypeScript to utilize type inference, providing robust tooling while reducing the need for extensive additional code. According to the 2020 State of JS survey, 78% of participants indicated they use TypeScript, and an impressive 93% of those surveyed plan to keep using it. The most common errors developers face are often type errors, where an unexpected type of value is encountered within a specific context. These mistakes can arise from simple errors such as typos, misinterpretations of a library’s API, incorrect assumptions about how code executes at runtime, or various other oversights. Consequently, adopting TypeScript can greatly improve both code quality and developer productivity by mitigating these frequent issues, ultimately leading to a more efficient coding experience. Additionally, its structured approach encourages best practices and fosters a more disciplined development environment.

R is a robust programming language and environment specifically designed for statistical analysis and data visualization. Originating from the GNU project, it has a close relationship with the S language, which was developed by John Chambers and his team at Bell Laboratories, now recognized as Lucent Technologies. In essence, R represents an alternative version of S, and although there are some significant differences, a considerable portion of S scripts can run in R without requiring any adjustments. This dynamic language encompasses a wide array of statistical techniques, ranging from both linear and nonlinear modeling to classical hypothesis tests, time-series analysis, classification, and clustering, while also offering extensive extensibility. The S language often finds application in research focused on statistical techniques, and R provides an open-source platform for those interested in this discipline. Additionally, one of R's standout features is its ability to produce high-quality graphics suitable for publication, seamlessly integrating mathematical symbols and formulas when necessary, which significantly enhances its appeal for researchers and analysts. Furthermore, R’s active community continuously contributes to its development, ensuring that users have access to the latest tools and libraries for their analytical needs. Ultimately, R remains a vital resource for anyone aiming to delve into data exploration and visualization.

Rust is notable for its remarkable speed and efficient memory management, functioning without the necessity of a runtime or garbage collector, which makes it ideal for high-performance applications, embedded systems, and smooth integration with various programming languages. Its sophisticated type system and ownership model guarantee both memory and thread safety, enabling developers to identify a wide range of bugs during the compilation phase. The language is bolstered by comprehensive documentation and a user-friendly compiler that provides detailed error messages, along with a suite of top-notch development tools—including an integrated package manager, build system, smart multi-editor support with auto-completion and type checking, as well as an auto-formatter. Thanks to Rust's rich ecosystem, developing a command-line interface tool is straightforward, equipping developers to confidently manage and distribute their applications. Moreover, Rust can significantly enhance JavaScript projects, streamlining the process of publishing to npm and bundling with webpack, which ultimately boosts the development workflow. By utilizing Rust's features, developers can achieve faster, more reliable software solutions, which can ultimately lead to improved project outcomes and increased productivity.

With a wide range of tools and APIs provided by top cloud service providers, creating services in Go has become more straightforward than ever. The language boasts a rich set of open-source libraries, alongside its robust standard library, making it an excellent choice for developing quick and advanced command-line interfaces. Go's impressive memory management and support for various integrated development environments further bolster its ability to power fast and scalable web applications. Additionally, its rapid compilation speed and clean syntax, coupled with built-in documentation and formatting features, are specifically designed to cater to the needs of DevOps experts and site reliability engineers. This discussion delves deeply into all aspects of Go. Whether you are starting a new project or aiming to enhance your existing Go expertise, a well-structured interactive introduction is available, divided into three distinct parts. Each segment includes practical exercises that reinforce your learning, while the Playground feature enables users to write and execute Go code directly within a browser, with immediate compilation and linking occurring on our servers. This interactive learning method not only makes mastering Go effective but also turns the process into an enjoyable experience. Furthermore, the community surrounding Go offers valuable resources and support, enriching your journey as you explore this powerful programming language.

Since its creation, Julia has been designed with a focus on delivering high performance. Programs developed using Julia compile into highly efficient native code on various platforms thanks to the LLVM framework. At its core, Julia employs multiple dispatch, which greatly aids in representing a wide range of object-oriented and functional programming principles. The exploration of the Remarkable Effectiveness of Multiple Dispatch highlights its outstanding performance capabilities. Additionally, Julia supports dynamic typing, giving it characteristics akin to a scripting language, while also being well-suited for interactive programming sessions. Moreover, Julia offers features such as asynchronous I/O, metaprogramming, debugging tools, logging, profiling, and a package manager, enhancing its versatility. Developers can use Julia’s extensive ecosystem to build comprehensive applications and microservices. This open-source initiative benefits from the contributions of over 1,000 developers and is governed by the MIT License, showcasing its strong community involvement. The blend of high performance and adaptability in Julia positions it as a formidable asset for contemporary programming challenges. As the programming landscape continues to evolve, Julia remains a relevant and effective choice for developers looking to harness its capabilities.

F# combines the ease and brevity reminiscent of Python with the superior correctness, robustness, and performance that outstrip those of C# or Java. This language is open-source and cross-platform, available at no cost, and comes with professional-level tools. F# is an exceptionally capable language for various applications, including web development, cloud computing, and data science, and it integrates smoothly with both JavaScript and the .NET framework. In cloud computing, the ability to leverage multiple interconnected services is crucial, and this is where F# excels due to its unique blend of technologies and features. The surge in popularity of cloud solutions has simplified the deployment of diverse services in the cloud, enhancing the possibilities for storing extensive datasets and performing intricate computations across distributed machine clusters. As the F# developer community grows, the opportunities for groundbreaking cloud-based applications expand significantly, paving the way for innovative solutions in various domains. This evolution not only enhances F#’s reputation but also invites more developers to explore its capabilities in the ever-expanding tech landscape.

Less, which stands for Leaner Style Sheets, acts as a complementary extension to CSS, broadening its functionality while ensuring it remains backward compatible. This document is the definitive resource for understanding both Less and Less.js, the JavaScript library that converts Less styles into conventional CSS. With a syntax that closely resembles CSS, newcomers can easily learn and adopt the language. Less adds a few practical features to CSS, making it accessible and quick for users to master. One prominent feature of Less is mixins, which enable the seamless integration of multiple properties from one rule-set into another. Furthermore, Less supports nesting, allowing developers to organize their styles in a hierarchical manner, either on its own or alongside traditional cascading styles. This versatility empowers developers to craft more structured and easily maintainable stylesheets without much hassle. Overall, Less not only enhances CSS but also encourages a more efficient workflow for style management.

Markdown offers a user-friendly way to create content in a clear and legible format, which can be seamlessly converted into standard XHTML or HTML. At its core, "Markdown" encompasses two main elements: (1) a plain text formatting syntax and (2) a Perl-based tool designed to transform this formatted text into HTML. For those interested in exploring Markdown's formatting options, the Syntax page provides comprehensive guidelines, while the online Dingus tool allows for immediate experimentation. The primary aim of Markdown's syntax is to maintain high readability, enabling users to present documents in plain text without visible tags or formatting indicators. While Markdown's syntax is influenced by various text-to-HTML converters, its foundational inspiration comes from the layout of plain text emails. This distinctive combination of simplicity and utility has propelled Markdown to become a favored choice for both writers and developers, facilitating their ability to craft formatted content with ease. Notably, its growing popularity is also reflected in the myriad of platforms and applications that now support Markdown, further expanding its accessibility and use.

JSON, which stands for JavaScript Object Notation, provides a compact format that facilitates data exchange. Its straightforward nature enhances both human readability and machine parsing, making it an appealing choice for developers. Originating from the JavaScript Programming Language Standard ECMA-262 3rd Edition published in December 1999, JSON is a text-based format that maintains independence from any particular programming language while utilizing familiar syntax seen in C-family languages such as C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Perl, and Python. This adaptability makes JSON a standout option for data interchange across various platforms. The JSON structure is based on two main elements: 1. Name/value pairs, which can be represented in various programming languages as objects, records, structs, dictionaries, hash tables, keyed lists, or associative arrays. 2. An ordered sequence of values, commonly represented in many programming languages as arrays, vectors, lists, or sequences. These essential components are widely recognized, and virtually every modern programming language includes support for them, thereby further solidifying JSON’s position as a highly practical data format for developers. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its effectiveness in facilitating seamless data communication across different systems.

JavaScript functions as both a scripting and programming language that is widely utilized on the internet, enabling developers to build interactive and dynamic features for websites. An impressive 97% of all websites around the world rely on client-side JavaScript, highlighting its crucial role in web development. As one of the leading scripting languages available today, JavaScript has become indispensable for creating captivating online user experiences. Strings in JavaScript can be represented using either single quotes '' or double quotes "", and it is essential to be consistent with the chosen style throughout your code. For instance, if you initiate a string with a single quote, you must also terminate it with a single quote. Each type of quotation mark comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks; for example, using single quotes can make it easier to incorporate HTML within your JavaScript code, as it removes the need to escape double quotes. This is particularly important when you need to include quotation marks within a string, which often necessitates using opposite styles for clarity and correctness. Furthermore, mastering the management of strings in JavaScript is crucial for developers aiming to elevate their programming abilities and create more sophisticated applications. In conclusion, a solid grasp of string handling will not only improve your coding efficiency but also enhance the overall quality of your web projects.

C++ is celebrated for its clear and concise syntax. Although beginners may initially perceive C++ as more complex than other programming languages due to its extensive use of symbols such as {}[]*&!|..., mastering these symbols can actually bring about a greater level of clarity and organization, surpassing languages that rely heavily on lengthy English phrases. Furthermore, C++ has improved its input/output system in comparison to C, and the integration of the standard template library makes data management and interaction more efficient, ensuring it remains as approachable as other languages without losing any essential functionality. This programming language adopts an object-oriented paradigm, treating software elements as individual objects with unique attributes and behaviors, which enhances or even replaces the conventional structured programming model that focused primarily on routines and parameters. By prioritizing objects, C++ provides developers with increased flexibility and scalability in their projects. Thus, the advantages of C++ position it as a robust choice for modern software development.

Create a fully developed async-await framework for user interfaces that utilize event-driven programming, incorporating isolate-based concurrency. This programming language is specifically designed for building user interfaces and features improvements such as strong null safety, a spread operator for expanding collections, and a collection if statement that allows for tailored UI customization based on the platform. It enables developers to work with a flexible type system that provides comprehensive static analysis and sophisticated, customizable tools. You can target web deployment through fully developed, efficient compilers that are optimized for JavaScript. Furthermore, backend capabilities can also be constructed using the same programming language that drives your application. This summary acts as an initial guide to the language, especially for those who favor practical learning experiences. To gain a deeper understanding, delving into the language and library tours or utilizing the Dart cheatsheet codelab would be extremely advantageous. Engaging with community-driven resources can significantly enhance your skills and knowledge, making it easier to navigate the programming landscape. Expanding your connections within the community can provide additional insights and support as you continue your journey in mastering this language.

Clarity brings the concept of smart contracts to the Bitcoin ecosystem by offering a decidable language that enables developers to understand the program's functionality directly through its code. In contrast to compiled languages, Clarity operates as an interpreted language, and its source code is transparently stored on the blockchain for public access. This transparency allows developers to create complex smart contracts with a high level of security on one of the most resilient blockchains available. The syntax used in Clarity is not only exact but also straightforward, allowing developers to predict the precise outcomes of their contracts. Moreover, Clarity empowers users by allowing them to define their own transaction conditions, which guarantees that tokens held by individuals will not be transferred without their consent. When developers write contracts using Clarity, the code is recorded on the blockchain precisely as it was created, ensuring that the executed version aligns perfectly with the code that has been rigorously tested and analyzed. This assurance significantly enhances trust in the smart contract deployment process within the Bitcoin network. Consequently, Clarity not only improves the reliability of blockchain transactions but also reduces the likelihood of unexpected errors, thereby fostering a safer environment for digital asset management. By providing these features, Clarity positions itself as a crucial tool for developers seeking to innovate within the Bitcoin landscape.

Silq represents a groundbreaking high-level programming language tailored for quantum computing, boasting a strong static type system, and was developed at ETH Zürich. Its introduction was marked by a publication at PLDI'20, underscoring its importance and potential impact within the domain of quantum programming. Furthermore, Silq aims to simplify the complexities associated with quantum algorithms, making them more accessible to programmers.

Racket stands out as a multifaceted programming language that represents a modern iteration of Lisp, originating from Scheme. It is meticulously designed to serve as a base for both the creation and execution of programming languages, enabling developers to craft diverse specialized and general-purpose languages. Key attributes of Racket encompass macros, modules, lexical closures, tail call optimization, delimited continuations, fluid variables, software contracts, green threads, and operating system threads, which collectively enhance its functionality. Furthermore, it incorporates vital primitives like event spaces and custodians that oversee resources, allowing the language to operate akin to an operating system while efficiently managing and loading various applications. The language's powerful macro system paves the way for additional extensions, and when combined with its module system and the capability to develop custom parsers, it grants developers comprehensive control over every facet of language operation. In fact, a significant number of constructs within Racket are established as macros in its underlying language, illustrating its distinct methodology in programming language creation. This adaptability not only empowers developers to experiment with novel language features and paradigms but also positions Racket as an exceptional resource for both novices and seasoned programmers, fostering an environment of creativity and exploration in coding. As a result, Racket’s unique strengths enable it to stand out in the landscape of programming languages.

HTML, an acronym for HyperText Markup Language, is the fundamental markup language that underpins every website on the internet. This essential coding language plays a critical role in structuring and organizing various elements within web pages and sites. The most recent version, HTML5, is tailored for the effective arrangement and display of content on the World Wide Web, marking the fifth and final major release recognized by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Currently, the specification is known as the HTML Living Standard and is consistently updated by the Web Hypertext Application Technology Working Group (WHATWG), which includes prominent browser developers such as Apple, Google, Mozilla, and Microsoft. HTML5 incorporates extensive processing models to enhance compatibility across different implementations; it improves existing markup options while also introducing novel markup and application programming interfaces (APIs) that are advantageous for complex web applications. As a result of these innovations, HTML5 is increasingly regarded as a viable platform for developing cross-platform mobile applications, emphasizing its adaptability and significance in contemporary web development. The continuous advancement of HTML5 not only mirrors the evolving needs of digital content creators but also addresses the expectations of users seeking improved interactive experiences online. This ongoing refinement of the language underscores its pivotal role in shaping the future of web technologies.