The top 10 best coding apps to learn SQL, Python, and more on the go

Make your phone even more useful

The democratizing power of the internet cannot be understated. When paired with the recent strides in affordable computing and internet connectivity, learning something new is a matter of curiosity and initiative. There's been increasing interest in coding over the past few yearss. Lucky for you, the tool you always have by your side—your phone—can help you learn the basics. We've rounded up a list of the best coding apps to get you started.

1. SoloLearn

SoloLearn is a one-stop-shop irrespective of whether you’re just learning code or want to brush your skills. The app offers courses in a host of languages, including R, Python, SQL, C++, and Java. You can pick up many more skills and tools that can help you become a data scientist, web developer, or even a full stack developer. The app is infused with an active community which sure comes in handy for problem-solving and helps you connect with others on the same journey.

2. Mimo

If you want to pick up SQL, Python, or web development, Mimo is a good choice. The well-designed app explains key concepts with easy-to-understand coursework and examples. There’s a built-in glossary, and a playground where you can experiment with code and run it within the app. If you’re looking for certificates, Mimo offers that too upon completing a course, albeit you'll have to shell money for them.

3. DataCamp

DataCamp is an excellent source for learning the fundamentals of Python, R, SQL, and concepts like data science, visualization, and machine learning. Hands-on exercises immediately follow the structurally sound courses, and they ensure you’re ready for the coding challenges and projects the platform offers. The first chapter of every course is available for free, so you can dip your toes in before paying up for full access.

4. Grasshopper

Google has come to the rescue for those on their way to learning JavaScript with their coding app, Grasshopper. Unlike most apps on this list, it’s completely free to use and will even bestow you with certificates as you move ahead in the course. The app focuses on visual puzzles to explain concepts and offers real-time feedback. If you need help with putting consistent efforts, it also offers daily reminders to ensure you don't skip a day.

5. Programming Hub

Programming Hub is probably the most content-rich app on the list, offering courses on everything from coding languages to app development and software engineering. There are a few free courses, but you can pay a lifetime access fee of about $30 to unlock 100+ courses and certifications. What I like the most about this app is that every course description clearly defines what you’ll be learning and whether the course will fit your objectives. It even includes an estimated salary that you could earn with the skills you pick up.

6. Enki

If a good interface appeals to you, Enki is one of the better-designed apps that can help you learn languages like Python and SQL from scratch. The content is easy to understand and is well-explained with illustrative examples. If you’re starting your coding journey with a friend or a group, you can even create a team to stay notified about their progress, which in turn can help you stay motivated. For those who have some experience, you needn't waste time on the basics as you can dive straight into solving code challenges.

7. Encode

Encode is a simple, no-frills app that offers bite-sized coding lessons – think of it as TikTok instead of YouTube videos. The interface is intuitive, and the app offers free lessons on Python, JavaScript, and web development. If you don’t want to waste your time on possible network issues, you can even download the lessons offline. There are exercises, too, but you’ll have to pay up for those.

8. Learn Web Development

This app doesn’t need an introduction, because the name is self-explanatory. If you’re explicitly pursuing web development skills, this is an app you should check out. It offers tutorials and courses on all relevant topics, from HTML/CSS to how you can build your website from scratch. There’s free content on offer, but you’ll have to pay up for full content, certificates, priority support, and cross-platform sync.

9. ScratchJr

Let’s face it, kids today are growing up with access to powerful technology, and if they’re going to be spending hours watching videos, you might as well let them learn something worthwhile. Based on MIT’s Scratch coding language made for kids (6-16), the app allows kids to create their own interactive stories and games. It promotes computational thinking and problem-solving skills with an interface designed to match a young child’s cognitive, personal, social, and emotional development.

10. CuriousJr

CuriousJr is tailored for kids between Grade 6 and 12 and teaches design, structure, algorithm, and basic programming concepts. The coursework is visual and engaging and allows students to create apps and games right on mobile. It’s completely free to use and takes the bore out of coding — a great way to get started on your coding journey.

Keep Coding

Once you have the hang of coding basics, you'll want try your hand at ore advanced tasks that can't be completed on your phone. If you're on a budget, you can easily polish your skills with one of the best Chromebooks and Google Colaboratory.