What do they do?

Preparing a programme begins with a complete description of the task that the computer has to perform. This description explains what data has to be keyed in, what computing must be done, and what form the output should take. 

The language a programmer uses depends on the job to be done. For example, if a job involves processing  data, the programmer will use COBOL. If it involves solving scientific problems, Fortran might be used. Commonly used languages include BASIC, Pascal, C, C++ and JAVA. New languages are constantly being developed.

Skills Needed

• Thorough understanding of the basics of software programming and associated areas
• Ability to think logically
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work in teams
• Good problem-solving skills
• A programmer also needs patience, persistence and the capability to perform analytical work

How do I get there?

You have to study physics, chemistry, math in Class 12 and sit for the various engineering entrance examinations. Then you can pursue BE/ BTech. Also, provided you are a science graduate, you can do MCA or MSc (computer science).

Apart from this, postgraduates and engineering graduates from streams other than computer science can do computer courses from private institutions such as NIIT, Aptech, CMC, etc to become computer programmers.