Advise needed: How do I go about developing my first android app ? - Java for Android App Development

Hi,
I am a recently laid off 30 year old SAP consultant from India. Over the last few weeks, I have been reading about the wonderful world of android apps. There is a great opportunity in India for android apps as millions of smart phones are sold every year. I have decided on building apps targeted at the Indian stock market - like stock screeners, that help people reach a proper investment decision. I want to make money out of my apps, so I want then to be fairly professional so that somebody buying them wont feel cheated. Also, there are not many (any) stock screener apps targeted at Indian stock market. So there is an opportunity there and I want this idea to be my first.
But how do I go about it ? I learnt Java at college, 10 years ago. My Java is highly amateurish even after I refreshed it over the last few weeks.I have bought a book on MIT App Inventor...and developed a few simple example apps already and tested them on my mobile. I am not yet sure App Inventor can help me develop more complex apps like the one I mentioned above.
So, I am desperately looking for advise from people who have been there, done that. How do I go about developing my first app ? Should I go about it the hard way - learn Java better ? Read a book on Android application development ? Build Web Apps using HTML5, JavaScript, JQuery ? Or stick to MIT App Inventor ? Try some app builder development tool like Tiggzi, Codiqa or Kinvey ?
I really need your advise as I really need to develop something quickly and make money out of it. :fingers-crossed:

Hi!
As far as i can help....i made some apps, some of them native with Java and others with HTML5.
From my experience, if you plan to make somekind of "atlas app (like wikipedia)" or not very user interface intensive or if you already know html5+css+javascript, you could go with html5, but i will always recomend native with Java as you have much more control over you app.
Anyway, if starting from 0, go for Java (Android SDK) get any tutorial around the web, there are tons of them, some better than others ofc, and free.
Hope you find your way to go!
good luck!

forgin said:
Hi!
As far as i can help....i made some apps, some of them native with Java and others with HTML5.
From my experience, if you plan to make somekind of "atlas app (like wikipedia)" or not very user interface intensive or if you already know html5+css+javascript, you could go with html5, but i will always recomend native with Java as you have much more control over you app.
Anyway, if starting from 0, go for Java (Android SDK) get any tutorial around the web, there are tons of them, some better than others ofc, and free.
Hope you find your way to go!
good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that. But may I also know your opinion on MIT App Inventor ?

I started with App Inventor and quickly out grew it. Using java will make it easier to move on to complex apps or add more complexity to any current ones.

RedDevil99025 said:
Thanks for that. But may I also know your opinion on MIT App Inventor ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally wouldnt use app inventor nor any other kind of "easy app maker"

I would not use the inventor, too.
I recommend reading the Head's First Java books (skip the UI part) and for Android the Vogella tutorials.
---------- Post added at 09:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:10 PM ----------
(Btw, you cannot build an app quickly to make big money. If you want to be successful, you need to spend a lot of time on development.)

RedDevil99025 said:
Hi,
I am a recently laid off 30 year old SAP consultant from India. Over the last few weeks, I have been reading about the wonderful world of android apps. There is a great opportunity in India for android apps as millions of smart phones are sold every year. I have decided on building apps targeted at the Indian stock market - like stock screeners, that help people reach a proper investment decision. I want to make money out of my apps, so I want then to be fairly professional so that somebody buying them wont feel cheated. Also, there are not many (any) stock screener apps targeted at Indian stock market. So there is an opportunity there and I want this idea to be my first.
But how do I go about it ? I learnt Java at college, 10 years ago. My Java is highly amateurish even after I refreshed it over the last few weeks.I have bought a book on MIT App Inventor...and developed a few simple example apps already and tested them on my mobile. I am not yet sure App Inventor can help me develop more complex apps like the one I mentioned above.
So, I am desperately looking for advise from people who have been there, done that. How do I go about developing my first app ? Should I go about it the hard way - learn Java better ? Read a book on Android application development ? Build Web Apps using HTML5, JavaScript, JQuery ? Or stick to MIT App Inventor ? Try some app builder development tool like Tiggzi, Codiqa or Kinvey ?
I really need your advise as I really need to develop something quickly and make money out of it. :fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Hibernate trainer quoted the following "You guys are brought up with IDE we used to compile on console". My sincere suggestion even in this RAPID developmental technologies around refresh your "Java skills" on console (DOS or Unix your wish) and make use of Eclipse IDE with Android SDK plugins for fast development. That would do. Start with Eclipse Helios and Google Android SDK and AVDs. Here you go... http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
I have developed a couple of very good apps and I use one myself but Google play store expects payment to become one of their developers Why should I pay for my own app to releasing to public for free? I choose XDA let them validate and evaluate my apps and enjoy. Let us CJava++++
The day is not far may be you get donated enough expand your ideas.

My advice is - don't read books, just start coding. A year ago I knew absolutely nothing about Java or Android. Find a webpage with sample android Activity. Start spawning your code from there. That's how I did it. Then lear something about deriving from View class... and so on...

Hey guys, thank you for all the advise. I will go through what each one of you has said and do things systematically.....I am basically starting from zero......so, lets see how far I go....and I will inform you guys about my progress and seek guidance from you.
Thanks again.

developer.android.com
Best site there is to start it has a training part and other examples. I'd personally work my way up from there if I was starting now.

radical_thinking said:
Best site there is to start it has a training part and other examples. I'd personally work my way up from there if I was starting now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't like the site when I started. In my opinion it is too difficult for beginners.

Better now
nikwen said:
I didn't like the site when I started. In my opinion it is too difficult for beginners.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea it wasn't always good but now they have a good training part + they provide sample code that you can run and fiddle with

It has a couple good step by step stuff, but its mostly "add this code" and has snippets that don't often make sense till you have a decent understanding of the rest of the code.

Related

[Q] Learning to Dev

I have been a member of XDA for a while and now I want to contribute. I have a basic understanding of computers and want to learn more. Obviously our greatest devs were not born devs they had to learn everything from somewhere. I'm looking for suggestions on where to start on the road to become the best dev I can be. Keep in mind I'm flat broke so I cannot hit up the local bookstore or download any paid software, but with the way the internet is today there must a free legitimate source for everything somewhere. So anyone willing to help a noob If I posted in the wrong section please kindly redirect me rather than flame me. Thanks in advance.
It all depends on what you want to contribute. I'm a beginner myself (only developing since august). It is easy to learn Java, for the most part. I would suggest heading over to http://developer.android.com/index.html for starters. There are many examples and if you want to know something specific, try using the search bar at the top right (it comes in handy). I have already published an app, a simple one, but still an application none the less. I am working on two other projects simultaneously (a live wallpaper and a home-replacement app). You can come to my website http://futurinnovations.blogspot.com/ to see what I'm working on. I am still in the process of learning, and being in college slows things down a bit. Just make sure not to give up. If your stuck, ask someone (or everyone) on forums like this.
Futur Innovations said:
It all depends on what you want to contribute. I'm a beginner myself (only developing since august). It is easy to learn Java, for the most part. I would suggest heading over to http://developer.android.com/index.html for starters. There are many examples and if you want to know something specific, try using the search bar at the top right (it comes in handy). I have already published an app, a simple one, but still an application none the less. I am working on two other projects simultaneously (a live wallpaper and a home-replacement app). You can come to my website http://futurinnovations.blogspot.com/ to see what I'm working on. I am still in the process of learning, and being in college slows things down a bit. Just make sure not to give up. If your stuck, ask someone (or everyone) on forums like this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I forgot to mention I want to learn to dev for Android. I want to start out with simple apps then work my way up to building/porting roms. Also I just downloaded the Java JDK and am using Java's "Greenfoot" Tutorial to get started since I have no experience with Java. And I will be sure to check out your blog and thank you for the reply.
porting and building is something far different from app development...you have to know much more if you want to work with kernel,drivers,basically you have to know everything from hardware level to user level (if you want to be top of the class)...good luck
farukb said:
porting and building is something far different from app development...you have to know much more if you want to work with kernel,drivers,basically you have to know everything from hardware level to user level (if you want to be top of the class)...good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well we all gotta start somewhere. Now is probably a good time for me as I'm only 18 and a senior in high school. Since I don't have a job at the moment I have plenty of free time after school and on weekends.
I'm only 18 myself. I started straight with downloading Eclipse and all of the appropriate software for developing and just dove in. I would recommend watching these tutorials: http://www.xtensivearts.com/topics/tutorials/. They helped me A LOT. I am taking a programming in C class in the spring semster, which I am looking forward to. Programming in Java for Android is different than regular programming. It's the same concepts, just different APIs and tools. I like using Eclipse because it is easy to learn and get used to. There are a lot of fancy features like a type of autocorrect (not like on the phone, but smarter). Like you said, just start from the basics, like "Hello World" (Hello Android) and practice creating different layouts using the tutorials given on the Developer site. Explore the site and look through everything because eventually you may need to know where its located for quick access. Just don't set too high of goals for yourself, other wise you might be more prone to give up (like I almost did). Good luck
Im in ths same boat as you we got to start somewhere
mit have a fantastic course in computer science online.
search for MIT open courseware then introduction to computer science.
I'm on 10 now, getting very complicated
crowstar said:
mit have a fantastic course in computer science online.
search for MIT open courseware then introduction to computer science.
I'm on 10 now, getting very complicated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks bro I'm checking out that MIT course right now it looks really helpfull
This is a great starting point for Android development, as it deals quite well with getting the Android SDK and Eclipse IDE set up and working together.
http://www.vogella.de/articles/Android/article.html
Futur Innovations said:
I'm only 18 myself. I started straight with downloading Eclipse and all of the appropriate software for developing and just dove in. I would recommend watching these tutorials: http://www.xtensivearts.com/topics/tutorials/. They helped me A LOT. I am taking a programming in C class in the spring semster, which I am looking forward to. Programming in Java for Android is different than regular programming. It's the same concepts, just different APIs and tools. I like using Eclipse because it is easy to learn and get used to. There are a lot of fancy features like a type of autocorrect (not like on the phone, but smarter). Like you said, just start from the basics, like "Hello World" (Hello Android) and practice creating different layouts using the tutorials given on the Developer site. Explore the site and look through everything because eventually you may need to know where its located for quick access. Just don't set too high of goals for yourself, other wise you might be more prone to give up (like I almost did). Good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, I'm 24. And I learn how to 'program' since 14-15.
It's easy to write apps for Android. But it's hard to write good apps.
You should take Software Engineering course (NOT Computer Science course).
If you take CS (Computer Science) course, than you will learn mainly about algorithm.
But if you enter SE (Software Engineering) course, you will learn about SDLC, software QA/testing, and planning to write programs for living
:-D
I personally don't like eclipse, it's just bloated IDE :-(
I use SciTE, apache ant, MinGW/MSYS (GCC 4.5.0), Java SDK, ActivePerl, Dev-C++ IDE. That's should be enough for development :-D
I will see if there are any software engineer classes at the college I am attending. If so, then I will sign up for it. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. Is taking the programming class still beneficial?
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Futur Innovations said:
Is taking the programming class still beneficial?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd really recommend a class if it's a viable option. It will help you understand object oriented programming, where just working through examples won't actually teach you how to understand what you're doing. Things like classes, inheritance and polymorphism are pretty difficult principles to grasp unless you've got someone to explain them to you. Then it's pretty easy.

[Q] Newbie needs advice on app development

I'm an IT consultant so I'm not a dummie, but I'm not exactly a programmer either.
We need to create an inventory/audit app for an Android tablet. I looked at the Eclipse documentation and I don't think I want to take the time to learn Java well for just this one app. Which leaves me with these options.
Has anybody used Mobiforms to create apps, and would a smart but untrained newbie be able to develop something reasonably quickly? They don't offer a trial version which I find more than annoying.
Should I just outsource the project to somebody in Bangladesh? I have some experience outsourcing.
Any other recommendations on getting an app created relatively quickly?
Thanks!
Or Google App Inventor...
No offense, but the outsource to Bangladesh comment isn't going to win you a lot of friends that aren't in Bangladesh.
I'd say try app inventor and see what you can learn, you'll know in relatively short order if it will do what you need.
Otherwise maybe you're in over your head and someone should outsource you to Bangladesh. ( kidding! ). Seriously though, if you don't find what you need I would hire out at that point.
I don't know much about Mobiforms, but their website looks terrible. Not that a website is the final word on a company but it strikes me as odd at least.
Thanks.
I spent an while with App Inventor. While it is surprisingly useful it lacks one thing that I must have, that being read/write access to the file system.
Today I just discovered Basic4Android and WOW! I haven't coded in basic in many years, but it's still easier to re-learn that than to learn Java from scratch. I'm sure none of the developers here have any interest in it, but for the occasional hobbiest like myself it's a lot easier to start out with. I recommend it for anybody who doesn't plan on making a career of Java programming or who already have a background in BASIC.
I reviewed Mobiforms and not only is their website aweful, but the documentation for it is aweful too. I can't recommend it for anything.
I will probably still outsource this project though.

[Q] New Young App Developer Needing Help

Hello XDA,
I have just finished my first year of high school, and have spent 2 years around Windows Mobile and Android.
I want to start developing in different parts of Android, Applications being the top priority.
I have found and got many guides such as Sam's Teach Yourself for helping me build applications.
I know I can't start off building advanced apps. But the place I need help is where should I start, and what things I should learn such as Java, Adobe Air being a few.
If you guys can please maybe make a list I should follow or something...This would be greatly appreciated,
Thanks A lot
If you have an idea about java, the next step is to "google" for "Android Developers"...
I think it's the perfect place for beginners in Android Development...♫ ♪
Yep, you'll definitely need to learn Java. Knowing some Object Oriented concepts will help too.
The recommended IDE (Integrated Developer Environment) for Android is Eclipse (it's free!). I personally use IntelliJ (community edition is free - less features, but it's got all you need for Android dev).
Looking at tutorials etc is really good - imo the best way to learn is hands-on learning. A good starting place is the developer docs: http://developer.android.com/resources/browser.html?tag=tutorial
Once you've followed a couple of those, you'll probably be exploring new/random classes, so looking at the reference will help too: http://developer.android.com/reference/packages.html
Of course the best way is to just try something out to get started - even if it is something simple, or verbatim from the tutorials.
As for what app to start with... a simple one is always good. But what is important is make something that you feel like you need/want to use yourself. That way you will be more motivated to follow through with the idea, and you'll be your own user, thus be able to make good improvements
Thank you so much
Thanks a lot. I would have no idea where to start, despite many guides available out there.
Both you have made it a lot simpler.
Thanks once again.
pigeonaras said:
If you have an idea about java, the next step is to "google" for "Android Developers"...
I think it's the perfect place for beginners in Android Development...♫ ♪
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
pyko said:
Yep, you'll definitely need to learn Java. Knowing some Object Oriented concepts will help too.
The recommended IDE (Integrated Developer Environment) for Android is Eclipse (it's free!). I personally use IntelliJ (community edition is free - less features, but it's got all you need for Android dev).
Looking at tutorials etc is really good - imo the best way to learn is hands-on learning. A good starting place is the developer docs: http://developer.android.com/resources/browser.html?tag=tutorial
Once you've followed a couple of those, you'll probably be exploring new/random classes, so looking at the reference will help too: http://developer.android.com/reference/packages.html
Of course the best way is to just try something out to get started - even if it is something simple, or verbatim from the tutorials.
As for what app to start with... a simple one is always good. But what is important is make something that you feel like you need/want to use yourself. That way you will be more motivated to follow through with the idea, and you'll be your own user, thus be able to make good improvements
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems
Oh, forgot to mention in my original post... the only reason I'm using IntelliJ is because I use it at work (so used to the shortcuts etc).
imo, both IDEs are comparable - just what you are used to.
If you haven't used either, probably go with Eclipse since there are a lot more tutorials/guides out there related to dev with Eclipse/Android.
I started developing about 8 months ago. I am going to be a Junior in High School, so we are in the same boat here.lol
Anyways, I spent a lot of time looking at many books and resources. Alos another thing that helps is to teach your self how stuff works by studying source codes. But dont only do this. Look at tut's and other resources as well. Remember, start small then work your way up! Dont go out and try to make a super amazing awesome app. You will just frustrate your self. So start simple. I was making small apps that only had text when i first started. Now where am i you may ask? I am the developer of the Android Markets only Honeycomb Launcher and a couple other larger apps!
Just remember it takes time, alittle money, patiences and PRACTICE! Make an app or at least work on an app EVERYDAY if possible.
If you get stuck use the resources on the Android site that Android gave to us.
http://developer.android.com/guide/topics/fundamentals/activities.html
Check out the DEV guides, resources and sample code.
Also, do you have eclipse and Android SDK already set up?
ZAIGHAM ALI said:
Hello XDA,
I have just finished my first year of high school, and have spent 2 years around Windows Mobile and Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I finished my 2nd year of high school, got an HTC Sensation 4G recently and am looking to make roms for other phones (currently looking at the Nexus S). I am getting bored so I would think it would be awesome if we could team up of something and create some roms for phones or something. I'm young like you, looking to make use of my general coding skills(had iPhone for 2 years, so i have some experience with jailbreaking and modding, etc.)
Would be very glad if we could team up or something and who knows, maybe become the next Cyanogen! Looking for a hobby, not profit.
Have a good day!
matistight said:
I finished my 2nd year of high school, got an HTC Sensation 4G recently and am looking to make roms for other phones (currently looking at the Nexus S). I am getting bored so I would think it would be awesome if we could team up of something and create some roms for phones or something. I'm young like you, looking to make use of my general coding skills(had iPhone for 2 years, so i have some experience with jailbreaking and modding, etc.)
Would be very glad if we could team up or something and who knows, maybe become the next Cyanogen! Looking for a hobby, not profit.
Have a good day!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Creating a ROM right off the back??? You are going to end up throwing your computer out the window! I know a few ROM developers and they say it is VERY challenging and frustrating at times.
I recommend you two join together or with others and create some apps first. Start small then work your way up...
IntelSoftApps said:
Creating a ROM right off the back??? You are going to end up throwing your computer out the window! I know a few ROM developers and they say it is VERY challenging and frustrating at times.
I recommend you two join together or with others and create some apps first. Start small then work your way up...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i concur... The Android operating system, including the Linux kernel, consists of roughly 12 million lines of code including 3 million lines of XML, 2.8 million lines of C, 2.1 million lines of Java, and 1.75 million lines of C++.
wrap your head around that... =)
depending on how complicated you want to go, you can try using phonegap or html5 to create apps, if not, you would need to learn java
PS: you want to make a rom from scratch? what?
Thanks to everybody above i really really appreciate it, i learnt a lot of nice advice.
killersnowman said:
i concur... The Android operating system, including the Linux kernel, consists of roughly 12 million lines of code including 3 million lines of XML, 2.8 million lines of C, 2.1 million lines of Java, and 1.75 million lines of C++.
wrap your head around that... =)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is A LOT of code!!! You guys should probably start with the "Hello, Android" tutorial. That can be a challenge if you dont know how to work eclipse. But luckily, Android provides a nice little "Hello, Android" tutorial.
P.S. You or anyone will never past Cyanogenmod for awhile. I think they know what they are doing.lol
But it is always good to dream big! Like i want to be a Trillionare.lol (I dont even know how to spell it) "But dreams do come try"
Hey guys, I'm a senior now. I have done the hello Android tutorial, and I have the Android dev for dummies, but I know nothing about java and xml programming.
Thanks for the advice. If anyone else has any other tutorials, let me know. Thanks.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
I am in the exact same position as you. I have just got the "Head First Java" book, but I dont think it looks like it will help that much.
monkeychef said:
Hey guys, I'm a senior now. I have done the hello Android tutorial, and I have the Android dev for dummies, but I know nothing about java and xml programming.
Thanks for the advice. If anyone else has any other tutorials, let me know. Thanks.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See i was in that boat like you guys were, and it SUCKS! All of the tutorials are very simple textviews and buttons, but nothing that really teaches you all that much java.
Heres what i suggest. Play with the source of apps. Download some source codes and create new android projects in eclipse from THAT source. (LET ME KNOW IF YOU NEED HELP WITH THAT)
And with in those projects, view all of the sources and xml files. Learn how stuff works. such as imports and buttons and permissions. I first started messing with layouts, xml files, strings, and buttons. This is good, BUT you will get to a point were you will see force closes. Thats because the java must match... That got me into looking at the java files more and more. Now that is almost the first thing i dive into.
Like i said along time ago, i am not anywhere close to being an expert at all! But i am getting a good handle on Android in the following ways...
- Visit XDA daily and other sites. Stay up to date and learn what is going on now. not what was being developed a month ago. Stuff is aways changing!
- Surround yourself with a group of developers! They can and will be your BEST friends! As many of you had said before, many of you want a hobby not a profit. Trust me, thats what everyone says.lol. There is some good money to be made out there!!! Some of your best developers can make every developer on a team some money. They also have your back if you get lost or stuck on something.
- Try finding people in your same boat or position. Kind of like the other kid on the site... You two can work something out. Exchange emails. share names and interest. This doesn't mean y'all need to hold hands but just create some chit chat once in awhile. If you learned something, tell him about it!
- USE YOUR F'IN RESOURCES!!! Android/Google made this AMZING site called Android.com. On that site they have developer guides, resources, tut's, and even sample code! Another amazing resource is Stackoverflow.com. Here you can find a lot of answers to any problem. I must have visited that site 1000 times.lol
and dont forget about GOOGLE.COM. ask questions in your search, but be SPECIFIC. Be sure to include "Android" in your search so you can get android support not some iPhone or Windows support...
Anyways, just get out there! try to be the best you can! Absorb as much as you can. LIVE ANDROID! but also have a life.lol
IntelSoftApps said:
All of the tutorials are very simple textviews and buttons, but nothing that really teaches you all that much java.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
very true. i had been a java programmer for 4 years prior to learning android dev and what really got me going was coming up with an idea for an app and moving to make that a reality. if you just go through and do tutorials you wont get as much out of it as actually trying to make something you can use, be it a small and simple something.
also, i had always done command line java programs and had ignored the java swing ui like the plague, but android has a great layout and ui system. if you are learning java for use in android dont be disheartened by javax.swing package
You should definitely learn an object oriented programming language first before delving into android. I would recommend Java as it is what you will use for a lot of development. A lot of these guides and tutorials including that dummies book expect you to know what a public vs private class is or what inheritance is.
Also another big part of android is XML. At least learn the basics of XML.
I recommend the Java for dummies book as it provides a good introduction to many of the Java concepts that you will need. Java and eclipse can be quite a lot of fun once you get to know it.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
If your a starter, I recommend to go for web based right way, I'm confident that in the near future most mobile device applications will be mainly web based just like desktops.
Thanks a lot, I will get that book asap.
apreichner said:
You should definitely learn an object oriented programming language first before delving into android. I would recommend Java as it is what you will use for a lot of development. A lot of these guides and tutorials including that dummies book expect you to know what a public vs private class is or what inheritance is.
Also another big part of android is XML. At least learn the basics of XML.
I recommend the Java for dummies book as it provides a good introduction to many of the Java concepts that you will need. Java and eclipse can be quite a lot of fun once you get to know it.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SEX10 using XDA App
Sorry, but what "web-based" ?
Kevincod said:
If your a starter, I recommend to go for web based right way, I'm confident that in the near future most mobile device applications will be mainly web based just like desktops.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SEX10 using XDA App

Which is the best book for Android beginners ?

Hey guys, I want to find work as either a freelance android developer or even make money by developing my own apps. I started from zero only a month ago. I now have an acceptable knowledge of Java - I am familiar with most concepts. Now, I am starting Android ....now which book do you think I should start with ?
1. Busy Coder's guide to Android development by Mark Murphy
2. Beginner's Android 4 Applications by Wei-Meing Lee
3. Professional Android 4 Applications by Roto Meir.
I have bought all 3 books. But I wonder which I should start with before I move on to the next. Mind you, I am not a skilled java programmer shifting to android like many of you here. And how long do you think does it take for an average novice programmer to gain acceptable command of Android and develop apps ?
RedDevil99025 said:
Hey guys, I want to find work as either a freelance android developer or even make money by developing my own apps. I started from zero only a month ago. I now have an acceptable knowledge of Java - I am familiar with most concepts. Now, I am starting Android ....now which book do you think I should start with ?
1. Busy Coder's guide to Android development by Mark Murphy
2. Beginner's Android 4 Applications by Wei-Meing Lee
3. Professional Android 4 Applications by Roto Meir.
I have bought all 3 books. But I wonder which I should start with before I move on to the next. Mind you, I am not a skilled java programmer shifting to android like many of you here. And how long do you think does it take for an average novice programmer to gain acceptable command of Android and develop apps ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Learning programming is nothing you can do casually. It can take quite a while.
However, it depends on what you define as good knowledge. You will get really good coding skills after decades of programming. But don't worry. You won't need skills as good as a professional developer's skills at the beginning. (And I don't claim to be as good as one of those old folks I described.)
It also depends on what you want to do. Some things like server communication are more complex while other things are easier.
I hope that this didn't discourage you. If you start with small apps, I am sure that you will be able to learn that. Coding is nothing magicial.
I'd start with book #2. I think that you can skip a lot of chapters of book #3 afterwards. I wasn't able to look into the first book on Amazon, but I think that I'd take that one as the last one.
However, make sure that you understand Java first. Without Java, the base for Android programming is missing.
I am sure that you can manage that. Enjoy it.
I'd also recommend book 2. It's very good for basic stuff.
I don't know any of these books, but i would also recommend you Googles Android Developer Site:
http://developer.android.com/training/index.html
There are great tutorials and all concepts of Android Applications are described in detail and quite easy to understand for beginners.
Thanks guys, as you suggest, I will start with book 2...
nikwen said:
Learning programming is nothing you can do casually. It can take quite a while.
However, it depends on what you define as good knowledge. You will get really good coding skills after decades of programming. But don't worry. You won't need skills as good as a professional developer's skills at the beginning. (And I don't claim to be as good as one of those old folks I described.)
It also depends on what you want to do. Some things like server communication are more complex while other things are easier.
I hope that this didn't discourage you. If you start with small apps, I am sure that you will be able to learn that. Coding is nothing magicial.
I'd start with book #2. I think that you can skip a lot of chapters of book #3 afterwards. I wasn't able to look into the first book on Amazon, but I think that I'd take that one as the last one.
However, make sure that you understand Java first. Without Java, the base for Android programming is missing.
I am sure that you can manage that. Enjoy it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Nikwen.....I am gonna devote this whole month completely to android, probably work on it for 15-16 hours a day....at the end of the month, I will know where I stand, and whether I can make a career out of it, or not.
RedDevil99025 said:
Thanks Nikwen.....I am gonna devote this whole month completely to android, probably work on it for 15-16 hours a day....at the end of the month, I will know where I stand, and whether I can make a career out of it, or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome.
Wow, that's much time. :good:
Enjoy it.
I'd also recommend stackoverflow.com
If you have a question regarding programming , there's a 95% chance it's been answered there
Sent from my SGH-I337M using xda app-developers app
alobo said:
I'd also recommend stackoverflow.com
If you have a question regarding programming , there's a 95% chance it's been answered there
Sent from my SGH-I337M using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right! :good:
Howevewr, I think it is even higher. :laugh:
Hello Every,
please use the following links for your android learning requirments
For Beginning
BEGINNING
ANDROID™ APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT Beginning Android Appication Development - Wei-Meng Lee
http://www.mediafire.com/?43g9rgzd2py396c
Android CookBook - Ian Darwin
http://www.mediafire.com/?7q5m1yd4wa90h43
Begging Android 4 - Grant Allen
http://www.mediafire.com/?d0sldbmcx9stdy3
Beginning Android 4 Games Development - Robert Green, Mario Zechner
http://www.mediafire.com/?nn8wcxjgsbozowt
Head First Android Development - Jonathan Simon
http://www.mediafire.com/?iq8n7grt2nu6m4v
Practical Android 4 Games Development - J. F. DiMarzio
http://www.mediafire.com/?2zkv7obn9wj2smf
Programming Android - Zigurd Mednieks
http://www.mediafire.com/?13u9b7shseu2bd1
For Pro
Professional Android Sensor Programming - Greg Milette, Adam Stroud
http://www.mediafire.com/?ei2w3u5t774q34c
Pro Android 4 - Satya Komatineni, Dave MacLean
http://www.mediafire.com/?dsebkb2b4b7ab1h
Advanced Android 4 Games - Vladimir Silva
http://www.mediafire.com/?nh5vq0jk5iqccdl
Pro Android media - Shawn Van Every
http://www.mediafire.com/?c83wjmum3r9e463
Pro Android Apps Performance Optimization - Hervé Guihot
http://www.mediafire.com/?aba5al9fa932za7
Please don't forgot to click thanks
your friend Ashish Gaur
Android is an open source and Linux-based operating system for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers.
For writing apps for Android is more than just learning code syntax. If you've never learned to code, you can check out plenty of resources online.
There are plenty of eBooks that are available which provides clear depth tutorial for creating Android apps from scratch.
I would like to recommend you one such eBook where I am sure you would get benefit out from it.
Here is the eBook link @ learnsauce.com
The best programming language for beginners is Basic4Android (similar to Visual Basic).
Check out for my ebook on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Game-development-Android-example-creating-ebook/dp/B0777PSGJZ
and start coding

Can I learn by my self?

Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you really need to know Java basics, and then just start learning off the getting started guides on the official site
deanwray said:
Well you really need to know Java basics, and then just start learning off the getting started guides on the official site
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks
It's possible to learn on your own, but it can be good to have others to either learn from or run your ideas by also. It's difficult to notice you're stuck in a box sometimes!
It's also a good idea to play with the SDK sample apps when you're learning not only Java but Android APIs.
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
YES YOU CAN
The best place to start would be to download and import the source codes of very simple open source android apps, read them thoroughly and then start making little modifications to it to learn what code affects what part of the app's functionality, try adding new functions and features. This way you will learn and build up your confidence.
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although it would probably be easier if you were taught it in an educational envrionment (university maybe?) or, like driving lessons, you had an actual android developer sit down next to you when learning/developing I personally think the official android Design and Develop series can take you from novice to intermediate - low end of complicated development. You could use these in conjunction with xda dev or stackoverflow to get any information/code that's missing or you don't understand how to implement.
developer.android.com/design
developer.android.com/develop
developer.android.com/training (especially this one)
Thankyou very much, I will start download source code and test modifys.
Android Developer official Israel very difficult for me.
But thanks
Sent from my GT-I9500 using xda app-developers app
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you can...Headfirst Java is a good book for beginners plus there are many web Tutorials on Youtube. You just need to be patient and work hard.All The best.
voilaworks said:
Yes you can...Headfirst Java is a good book for beginners plus there are many web Tutorials on Youtube. You just need to be patient and work hard.All The best.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you
You can learn the basics by reading books or doing online Tutorials Did it aswell - successfully ofc
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, the answer you are looking for is absolutely! You can learn everything you need to by yourself, granted it will take much longer than if you had someone to ask questions.
How do I know? I started programming on Android ~3 years ago, by myself. I had nobody that talked me into it, and I didn't attend any colleges. A motivational spark encouraged me. I had absolutely no programming experience, how it worked, or anything about it. Now, I have 5 apps on Google Play, and am working on my 1st game. All with the knowledge I've accumulated over the years out of pure interest. People laugh when I tell them it's my hobby, I stand serious haha.
For me, youtube (something visual) helped me get started, as you can easily follow along. After you feel you have a grasp on the basics, I started looking online further. Searching this site, and StackOverflow.com are great learning resources. Before you know it, you'll be a master! Good luck!:good:
Firstly, it might help if you describe what is your exact situation. How much experience (not job experience, but coding experience) do you have in programming? How much comfortable you are with any programming language, say C? How familiar you are with OO concepts? Are you uncomfortable just because there's something different with Java, or is it because Java is your first programming language? If you read carefully, the preface of SCJP book says that this book is not to be used to learn Java from the scratch.
Btw, unless you get all building blocks in place (e.g logic constructs - loops, basic data structures, OO concepts etc.) don't go for other stuff like threading, swing, JDBC, xml parsing etc. :good:
You can definitely learn it on your own as long as you have to drive to do so. I taught myself ( I had no computer background). I am no expert but I can get by. And I just released my first multi-player game, Word Cloud Social, on Google Play yesterday. Check it out .
auricPuneet said:
You can definitely learn it on your own as long as you have to drive to do so. I taught myself ( I had no computer background). I am no expert but I can get by. And I just released my first multi-player game, Word Cloud Social, on Google Play yesterday. Check it out .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, thanks for your words, inspired to me.
A friend teach me a little and gime me a source code of a theme pack and I know change the image and customize this, but I need learn more.
Thank youvery much
As auric stated, you have to have the motivation and determination to learn by yourself, but it is definitely possible.
Don't rush it, take your time and try to understand it. Analyze everything, and if you have questions search the web, or ask on sites like here right away.
You have to believe in yourself
Noted to self thrice via tapatalk
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you CAN, i did it my self one year back, now i have my own app in playstore
useful links:
http://www.vogella.com/tutorials/android.html
http://stackoverflow.com/questions/tagged/android
http://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/
http://omapzoom.org/
http://grepcode.com/project/repository.grepcode.com/java/ext/com.google.android/android/
angelgavipo said:
Hi, I dont know java but I know a little about Eclipse and make apps.
But I nedd know if is possible learn by my self.
And How??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course you can, read a lot of tutorials or watch a lot of video tutorials depending on what you prefer and how you learn best, but most importantly: practice.
I think the best way is to find a simple idea you like for an app, and learn just what you need to create this app along the way, start off with a basic "how to setup an android app project" tutorial and work your up from there.
The android framework is quite wide, you can't learn all at once, I think this method allows you to stay on a defined path and actually achieve something.
And by learning the APIs you need for your app idea, it'll open more doors for you to learn other APIs to improve upon your project, or start a new one being more comfortable with the environment.
If you're more the type of learner which learns best by watching, I recommend you watch the 200 videos series for beginners by TheNewBoston, it's a good start:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2F07DBCDCC01493A
The official training courses and docs can be a bit overwhelming for beginners I think.
If it's something you really want to do, then just practice a lot and stick with it, you'll get there.
Just 3 or 4 years ago I didn't know anything about programming except some very basic HTML, I learned by myself and now I work full-time as a front-end Web & Android engineer at a french startup (IZIPass), on projects for clients such as McDonalds and Subway.
If you're looking for some inspiration, the series about Hacker Schools by former XDA TV producer Jayce Broda is an awesome one.
It shows how Mark Rossetti evolved from a total beginner to being hired by SalesForce in the SF bay area in 12 weeks.
You really get to see his progression as these are weekly interviews, it's great, I know it inspired me a lot. And still inspires me to try and go live in San Francisco, but that's another subject^^
Just make your own "Hacker School" for yourself
You certainly can. I'm still in highschool and I'm self taught. I educational book I've enjoyed reading was Java Notes 6. Its free of charge on his website!
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
gh0stslayer said:
YES YOU CAN
The best place to start would be to download and import the source codes of very simple open source android apps, read them thoroughly and then start making little modifications to it to learn what code affects what part of the app's functionality, try adding new functions and features. This way you will learn and build up your confidence.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Love this idea.
ricky310711 said:
Love this idea.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you
To get interesting app's source codes one could use F-Droid (it's an app store which only hosts open source apps).
And also people with somewhat limited coding knowledge could use APIs to further reduce their efforts.
I found this app very helpful and inspiring in this regard.

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