Introduction

Writing software, computer programs, is describing how to do something.   In its simplest form, it is a lot like writing down the steps it takes to do something - a process.  But, if what you need to do is not obvious or it involves multiple objects (each with their own process) writing the program will challenge you like when you are solving puzzles. 

So, writing a computer program can be like composing music, like building a house, like creating lots of stuff.  It has been argued that in its current state, it is an Art, not engineering. 

An important reason to consider learning a bit about how to program a computer is that the concepts underlying it will be valuable to you, regardless of whether or not you go on to make a career out of it.  One thing that you will learn quickly is that a computer is very dumb.  It does exactly what you tell it to do, which is not necessarily what you wanted.  Programming will help you learn the importance of clarity of expression.