The easiest way to learn programming essentials This up-to-date introductory guide to programming focuses on basics, teaching fundamental concepts and hands-on techniques to beginners. The book introduces you to real-world programming using Microsoft's free but powerful Visual Basic 2008 Express Edition. Unlike other so-called introductory guides to programming, Programming: A Beginner's Guide stays focused on exactly the information beginners need to know. Step-by-step tutorials take you through the process of creating practical programs for Windows. Plenty of examples of executable code are available for download from the book's website.