5 basic coding concepts that every student should know 

Coding is not only a bunch of alphanumeric codes put together for the sake of programming. In fact, programming languages are known to help children develop their creativity, polish their problem-solving skills, and improve their overall academic performance. Learning new languages, including programming languages, also assists children with their brain plasticity, rapid neural linking abilities, and lesser inhibitions and fears of learning something new as compared to grown-ups. So, it’s no wonder that schools are incorporating coding in the curriculum. Here are some basic coding concepts that beginners need to know about. 

Variables 
Variables are the building blocks of any computer programming language. They serve as ‘containers’ for information. This information is then stored in these containers for subsequent use. One example of variables is the dialogue box that appears when we visit the homepage of a website. The dialogue window simply greets us like this: "Hello!" "Can you tell me your name?" It is a variable because the Visitor Name in the code varies. A programmer has to use this variable to obtain the information it holds at any moment. 

Syntax 
Computer programming, like the English language, has a syntax or set of rules that determine certain letter and symbol patterns. The computer will read and comprehend codes correctly if the syntax is correct. Take, for example, a simple email address and the required syntax. Because of their format, email addresses are immediately comprehended by readers and computers. In most cases, email addresses must start with a string of letters and digits, then the "@" symbol, and finally the domain name of the website. Similarly, each programming language has its own syntax, or the sequence in which code should be written so that the programme can grasp what it is supposed to perform. 

Tools 
Simply put, in computer programming, a tool is a piece of software that aids programmers in writing code more quickly. An Integrated Development Environment (IDE), for example, is one of the most crucial tools for computer programmers. An IDE can check for faults in code syntax, organise files; auto-complete frequently used code, and aid navigation through the code. The final vital component of coding is tools, which streamline procedures and ensure accuracy. 

Data Structures 
When a big amount of interconnected data is involved, data structures assist programmers in simplifying data collection. Take for example, the Visitor Names in the dialogue box as mentioned earlier. If a programmer needs to store and have a reference of 100 different visitor names, he can use a data structure such as a list. It will be easier and less time-consuming than having to create 100 different variables for each visitor which would make the text lengthy and difficult to edit in the future. 

Control Structures 
A control structure examines variables and determines a course of action based on the parameters provided. When a computer programme is in progress, for example, the code is read line by line by the computer from top to bottom and for the most part left to right. The computer will reach a point when it must make a ‘choice’ as the code is read (based on strict rules set by the computer programmer). At this point, the code could jump to a new section of the programme, re-run a specific piece of code, or simply skip a block of code entirely.