**Python is generally better for beginners** because:

- **Simpler syntax** — reads almost like English, less punctuation and ceremony
- **Faster to see results** — write useful code quickly without boilerplate
- **Forgiving** — more flexible, easier to learn through experimentation
- **Great for learning fundamentals** — focus on concepts rather than language rules

**Java has advantages too:**
- Teaches stricter programming discipline early
- More marketable for jobs
- Better for understanding how computers actually work (memory management, type systems)
- Larger ecosystem for certain fields

**My take:** Start with Python if you want to build confidence and momentum. You'll learn programming concepts faster. Once comfortable, Java (or C++) teaches you deeper computer science principles that make you a better programmer overall.

You don't have to choose just one—many people learn Python first, then Java. The fundamentals transfer over.

What's your goal—learning to code generally, or preparing for specific work?
