With AI coding assistants changing how software is written, beginners often wonder whether traditional advice still applies. The short answer: yes, but with a twist.

• Python remains the top choice: It has the gentlest learning curve, huge community support, and applies directly to data science, automation, and AI workflows.
• JavaScript is essential for web: If you want to build websites or apps people actually use, you cannot avoid it. Start with HTML/CSS, then JavaScript.
• Learn to read AI-generated code: In 2026, a big part of programming is understanding, debugging, and reviewing code written with AI help, so focus on fundamentals rather than memorizing syntax.
• Build one real project: A small game, a personal website, or a simple bot teaches more than a year of tutorials.

Verdict: start with Python for logic and problem-solving, and add JavaScript once you want to build things for the web.