What Is C#: Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask

The programming language C#, also known as C Sharp, debuted in 2002. It originally looked like Java to provide a general object-oriented programming format.

C# was first designed so that businesses could build a whole range of software using one language. This makes it more flexible and saves you from having to learn a series of languages.

But what is C#? Read on to learn more about this fascinating programming language.

What Is C# Used For?

Game developers use C# thanks to its object-orientation functions. It also features tools like Automatic Garbage Collection and various interfaces. These make it a great choice for game development.

It’s also commonly used to develop desktop and web applications. Microsoft apps run on C#.

You can write C# in a text editor program like Notepad++. Save any files with the .cs extension to specify the file as a C# program. Need to turn a document into a PDF? The language can even handle that. Check out how to use C# to create a PDF.

Or you can write C# in dedicated programs. Game developers use Unity.

Among other things, you can also use C# for:

  • blockchain
  • Android mobile apps
  • Windows services
  • artificial intelligence
  • Azure cloud services

You’ll need an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to run your C# code without installing the program you’ve written.

What Are the Benefits of C#?

C# is easier to learn if you already know Java, C, or C++. That makes it easier to start with the C# language.

There’s also a large community of users, which means there is an incentive to keep developing new software and tools. This community also makes it easier to start learning C#.

One of the reasons there is such a large community because C# is an open-source language. You can find elements you need on GitHub.

It’s an efficient language, and it has a high memory backup, so you don’t have memory leak problems. Using C# also cuts down on errors since it prompts developers to write efficient code. 

Because C# is a standard language, it works regardless of your operating system.

How to Learn C#

You may be wondering how to use C#. Thankfully, there are plenty of tutorials online to walk you through learning C#. 

You can also find a range of C# books for beginners. These will walk you through the principles behind the language.

If you’re a visual learner, you can find C# tutorials and even full courses on Youtube. These will teach you the basics as well as specific techniques.

One of the best ways to learn C# is to set yourself small projects. Work through coding them using the tools you have available. You can invest in other software as you progress.

Get Started With C#

If someone asks, “what is C#?” now you can answer the question. It’s an excellent multi-purpose programming language that lets you write a whole raft of programs.

With its supportive community and many possible applications, C# is a great programming language to learn.

Keen on improving your tech knowledge? Check out our tech articles for more advice and tips.