Database Users

Hey Devs, what's the best way to learn Android development?

I've been playing around with the App Inventor for the last few days. I like it, it's fast, it's pretty easy, and I find it fun. The problem is though, right now you can't publish apps to the market.
Throw in the fact that you can't make very robust or professional apps with the App Inventor and I've been thinking of trying the more traditional route.
But where do I begin? I've got the Android SDK, Java JRE, and Eclipse all installed and ready to go, but that's where I'm stalled.
I've got zero programming experience. Should I pick up a book for Android development? Should I start just developing for Java and move onto Android later? I've got a few ideas for applications, some for businesses, some for users, some paid and some ad-driven. I've got the ideas, but lack the knowledge to implement them.
Even the official Google Android tutorials seem a little over my head, like they were made for people that are already knowledgeable in programming.
There is so much information out there, it's hard to find a good "Starting from zero" point / tutorial.
Thanks for the suggestions!

You're going to want to become experienced with Java and then move into Android.
There is some good information on the web. I learned some of the basics from this guys videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hl-zzrqQoSE
I also picked up a book thats called Head First Java that is supposed to be really good and noob friendly, with easy to remember examples and challenges. I am nowhere near experienced, but I have been doing research on it for a while.

Beginning Android Development

I'd probably try Beginning Android 2 This edition covers Android 2.0+.

Those both require some experience with Java. You have to start with Java first.

engagedtosmile said:
You're going to want to become experienced with Java and then move into Android.
There is some good information on the web. I learned some of the basics from this guys videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hl-zzrqQoSE
I also picked up a book thats called Head First Java that is supposed to be really good and noob friendly, with easy to remember examples and challenges. I am nowhere near experienced, but I have been doing research on it for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 on Head First Java. Several people have suggested it. Also, there was a thread where someone had posted information, but I have searched and can't find it. I will try again later.

Thanks for all the input! I'll pick up a copy of heads first java.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App

[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

Planning to learn coding games for android - need help

I would love to create an android game. So I am planning to start learning it.
I have coded an application already and I think I know the basics. So now I want to get into game programming which is too complex if I heard it right.
I would like my fellow developers who have experience in coding games to give me some links and tutorials which will come handy for newbie like me.
Thanks in advance!

obscurant1st said:
I would love to create an android game. So I am planning to start learning it.
I have coded an application already and I think I know the basics. So now I want to get into game programming which is too complex if I heard it right.
I would like my fellow developers who have experience in coding games to give me some links and tutorials which will come handy for newbie like me.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the best way to learn any new area of software development is to get stuck into a project. I've been working in various embedded and real-time environments for years but a couple of years ago myself and a couple of mates decided to try to make a game. At the time we wanted to learn C# so we dived into the XNA framework & made something that ran on Windows & XBox. It was never released, but I learned a lot of new stuff. Started with their tutorials and went from there. I can't help with links and so on for Android but don't be put off by the idea that games are too complex - the first software job I ever did was on a full size submarine simulator for the Navy & that really was complicated!

I think that this is a very good piece of advice: http://www.raywenderlich.com/12065/how-to-create-a-simple-android-game
It helped me very much.

Coding games has become very easy these days thanks to the superb engines but some do come at a premium price
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Hit Thanx Button if i helped you!

sak-venom1997 said:
Coding games has become very easy these days thanks to the superb engines but some do come at a premium price
Sent from my GT-S5302 using Tapatalk 2
Hit Thanx Button if i helped you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. But Andengine is free and very good. Look at the link I gave above.

I used Unity3D for my class project before. It's very nice and easy to use. You should check it out

there is a great guide on xda: link.

ciao99 said:
there is a great guide on xda: link.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I have started learning!

Also another great resource is the new Boston. You can see them here and select Java Game Development. http://thenewboston.org/tutorials.php
You can also learn regular Java and Android development on that Site!
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

When I started to learn android game developing I found some very useful tutorials at: obviam.net. Look for the series 'Getting started in android development with libgdx'.
This series uses the framework libGDX, which enables you to write your game once and easily port it to many different platforms.

Fíghter02 said:
When I started to learn android game developing I found some very useful tutorials at: obviam.net. Look for the series 'Getting started in android development with libgdx'.
This series uses the framework libGDX, which enables you to write your game once and easily port it to many different platforms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally support this. I created my first Android game (Rock Ninja) with no previous game development experience thanks to the awesome Libgdx framework/community.

Yeah, LibGDX great thing and very easy to learn on GoogleCode's wiki page by simply reading topics one by one. Of course if you are familiar with java first

I'm also member of libGDX community, even helped to fix some bugs in particle editor. But after deeper look at this engine, you find some problems in deployment on other platforms. So, I'm looking at the Unity 3d now, besides it became free for android and iOS version.

Widesteppe said:
I'm also member of libGDX community, even helped to fix some bugs in particle editor. But after deeper look at this engine, you find some problems in deployment on other platforms. So, I'm looking at the Unity 3d now, besides it became free for android and iOS version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, iOS is still work in progress with Libgdx. Good news is that the new RoboVM backend(that will replace Monotouch/Xamarin) is looking really promising and a first app has already been successfully published to the Appstore.

I have a decent stash of books on mobile development. I would start with either monogame, libGDX(provided you know openGL), AndEngine, Unity3D, or use cross platform tools that turn HTML5/CSS3/Javascript into native code. Give me a PM if you need anything, best of luck :good:

Monkey_King said:
I have a decent stash of books on mobile development. I would start with either monogame, libGDX(provided you know openGL), AndEngine, Unity3D, or use cross platform tools that turn HTML5/CSS3/Javascript into native code. Give me a PM if you need anything, best of luck :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need any knowledge of OpenGL for Libgdx, everything is abstracted out for you.

ob1cat said:
You don't need any knowledge of OpenGL for Libgdx, everything is abstracted out for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isn't the GLSL used in LibGDX?

Monkey_King said:
Isn't the GLSL used in LibGDX?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Internally yes, but it's abstracted by the framework for you not to need to worry about it.

Learn or do it the easy way??

Ok guys, im currently learning Java and I'm still learning the basics. I'll say I know about 80% of the basics things in Java. I am really desperate to create my own app and then I stumbled upon the 'MIT App Inventor' (MIT AI). Its basically a simiplified way on creating a android app. Just drag and drop things etc. I reckon I can build my app using the MIT AI since a guy controlled his robot using the MIT AI so I see no reason why I wont be able to build my app using the MIT AI.
But if I use the MIT AI, I feel as if I'm going to to the cowards way. Like I'm not going to build my app using Java but just by dragging and dropping things into place. So what do you guys think?
I'll still be learning Java but as of right now, I leaning towards using MIT AI for now but i'll probably have a guilty feeling about it

Yeah, I recommend learning Java. You cannot do everything with the App Inventor. Basic things can be done with the App Inventor, but very complex things cannot.

nikwen said:
Yeah, I recommend learning Java. You cannot do everything with the App Inventor. Basic things can be done with the App Inventor, but very complex things cannot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess for the time being I'll use MIT AI since the app I want to create is not that advanced. But there is a feature that I would like to put in my app later on when I learn Java since that feature is WAY TO COMPLICATED for me to put into my app for now...
How long did it take you to learn Java?
EDIT = Damn, just realized that I won't be able to implement the feature to my app later on since I wont be getting the source code for my app...

TwilightLoz said:
I guess for the time being I'll use MIT AI since the app I want to create is not that advanced. But there is a feature that I would like to put in my app later on when I learn Java since that feature is WAY TO COMPLICATED for me to put into my app for now...
How long did it take you to learn Java?
EDIT = Damn, just realized that I won't be able to implement the feature to my app later on since I wont be getting the source code for my app...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You've pretty much answered your own question Through my few years in programming, I've come to realize this: the easiest solution is not always the best.
The drag-and-drop programming environments look good on the surface, however as soon as you start implementing and experimenting with complex ideas, they becoming limiting. These type of environments are ideal for those just beginning and with little desire to advance their skills. You, on the other hand, already seem to know a bit about Java and have expressed a desire to learn more - a simple environment will just limit you.
My recommendation? Stick with Java. Start out with a small project like a calculator, and follow some tutorials. After you've grasped the basics, try jumping into a complex project, where you're forced to learn. I can vouch for this, because it's exactly what I did. I started with a few simple Android app and then worked on a bigger project. I googled, used StackOverflow and followed tutorials and learned a lot along the way.
Hope this helped, please feel free to ask anything else!

Yeah, im just self teaching myself Java. I know a basic C++. I dont really want to study computer science in college/university since the fee of the course is so overpriced for the course and to be honest, I see no point in studying it since you can learn off from the internet. Thats just my opinion. I dont really have a problem with people going to university to learn CS but I personally wouldn't.
I'm really just self teaching myself computer science. I know decent knowledge about hardwares in computers. I built my own computer back in '09 and still is running like a pro
The thing that is putting me off from learning any type of computer language is the time it takes to learn... I guess I just gotta be patient and keep learning.
So have you published any apps on the play store?

TwilightLoz said:
Yeah, im just self teaching myself Java. I know a basic C++. I dont really want to study computer science in college/university since the fee of the course is so overpriced for the course and to be honest, I see no point in studying it since you can learn off from the internet. Thats just my opinion. I dont really have a problem with people going to university to learn CS but I personally wouldn't.
I'm really just self teaching myself computer science. I know decent knowledge about hardwares in computers. I built my own computer back in '09 and still is running like a pro
The thing that is putting me off from learning any type of computer language is the time it takes to learn... I guess I just gotta be patient and keep learning.
So have you published any apps on the play store?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I have got no apps out there, but I want to release one soon.
I learned Java by reading (without testing) the book Head First Java. However, I had some Delphi and Python programming knowledge.
This book is really great. And it is fun to read it.

Learn, that's what it is all about , and it's going to be great fun too
Sent from my HTC Explorer A310e using Tapatalk 2

yep, im just currently following the bucky tutorials (thenewboston.org) right now. Ive actually got that book and read a few chapters. Its a good book but I didn't understand some parts of it. Thats why im going through all the bucky Java tutorials and then going to read the book so I have a full understanding of Java.

TwilightLoz said:
yep, im just currently following the bucky tutorials (thenewboston.org) right now. Ive actually got that book and read a few chapters. Its a good book but I didn't understand some parts of it. Thats why im going through all the bucky Java tutorials and then going to read the book so I have a full understanding of Java.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like a good plan.
Happy coding!

hey there. Im currently having difficulty learning about event handlers. I know what they do but im just confused on how to use them.
This is the framework of a typical '.addItemListener(){}' method:
.addItemListener(
new ItemListener(){
public void itemStateChanged(ItemEvent event){
}
}
);
I dont know what those keywords mean or when to use them. Could someone shine some light on this?

TwilightLoz said:
hey there. Im currently having difficulty learning about event handlers. I know what they do but im just confused on how to use them.
This is the framework of a typical '.addItemListener(){}' method:
.addItemListener(
new ItemListener(){
public void itemStateChanged(ItemEvent event){
}
}
);
I dont know what those keywords mean or when to use them. Could someone shine some light on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you programm for computers, you need ItemListeners to get informed when the selected item of a JComboBox changed.
That means that the itemStateChanged method is invoked when the user selects an item.
However, you do not need them when you learn Java for Android. You do not need Swing and AWT at all!
Skip everything related to the UI as it is different for Android.

Ive been spending most of my time recently learning about GUI in Java... I feel wasted.
Thanks for the help though. Much appreciated.
I'll probably still finish the bucky vids and then move onto the head first Java book. Does that book contain everything I need to know in order to build a successful app?
I also came across this website. Seems much better and more easier to understand than the book I have:
http://mobile.tutsplus.com/series/learn-java-android-development/
Your thoughts?

TwilightLoz said:
Ive been spending most of my time recently learning about GUI in Java... I feel wasted.
Thanks for the help though. Much appreciated.
I'll probably still finish the bucky vids and then move onto the head first Java book. Does that book contain everything I need to know in order to build a successful app?
I also came across this website. Seems much better and more easier to understand than the book I have:
http://mobile.tutsplus.com/series/learn-java-android-development/
Your thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The head first book explains Java. It explains object-oriented programming very well and tells you everything you will need to get started with Android programming.
As soon as you have got Java knowledge, you can start with Android programming. You need Java for Android programming, that is what the book (and your link) explains, but it does not explain Android programming. I recommend this site for Android Tutorials: http://www.vogella.com/android.html It is great.
In a short form: Java knowledge are the basics, Android related things require Java knowledge and are related to the special conditions on the device. Therefore they have another API for the UI, background services and other things.
Btw, I needed to learn the Java UI things later when I wrote a desktop application. You did not waste your time. Your knowledge will be helpful later.

nikwen said:
The head first book explains Java. It explains object-oriented programming very well and tells you everything you will need to get started with Android programming.
As soon as you have got Java knowledge, you can start with Android programming. You need Java for Android programming, that is what the book (and your link) explains, but it does not explain Android programming. I recommend this site for Android Tutorials: http://www.vogella.com/android.html It is great.
In a short form: Java knowledge are the basics, Android related things require Java knowledge and are related to the special conditions on the device. Therefore they have another API for the UI, background services and other things.
Btw, I needed to learn the Java UI things later when I wrote a desktop application. You did not waste your time. Your knowledge will be helpful later.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh okay. Thanks. So yeah, i'll probably finish with the bucky vids, then go the link I posted to reinforce my Java skills then go to the head first book. Then I'll probably go to the link you sent me although the link you sent me seems a bit too 'intimidating'... so I'm thinking of referring to this:
http://developer.android.com/training/index.html
for Android programming.

TwilightLoz said:
Ahh okay. Thanks. So yeah, i'll probably finish with the bucky vids, then go the link I posted to reinforce my Java skills then go to the head first book. Then I'll probably go to the link you sent me although the link you sent me seems a bit too 'intimidating'... so I'm thinking of referring to this:
http://developer.android.com/training/index.html
for Android programming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, the vogella tutorials might not be the right tutorials for you.
However, I do not like the official training sites. They are too difficult for beginners in my opinion. I would not start with these.
Some like the new boston videos: http://thenewboston.org/list.php?cat=6
(They are many. I do not want to intimidate you, but I thought that I should mention them as you like video tutorials. Don't worry, you will not need to watch even the half of them. I would recommend to watch the first ones and then watch the other ones if you need their content. SQL or WebView operations are unimportant for a beginner. )

nikwen said:
Ok, the vogella tutorials might not be the right tutorials for you.
However, I do not like the official training sites. They are too difficult for beginners in my opinion. I would not start with these.
Some like the new boston videos: http://thenewboston.org/list.php?cat=6
(They are many. I do not want to intimidate you, but I thought that I should mention them as you like video tutorials. Don't worry, you will not need to watch even the half of them. I would recommend to watch the first ones and then watch the other ones if you need their content. SQL or WebView operations are unimportant for a beginner. )
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I gotta admit, when I looked at the android sections I felt as if I wont even have the chance to build an android app since theres over 200 vids and theres too much to learn but then you said I wouldnt even have to watch nearly more than half of them so that lifted up my spirit
But im just wondering, how long does it actually take for a person to learn 'enough' Java to start making a android app?

TwilightLoz said:
Yeah, I gotta admit, when I looked at the android sections I felt as if I wont even have the chance to build an android app since theres over 200 vids and theres too much to learn but then you said I wouldnt even have to watch nearly more than half of them so that lifted up my spirit
But im just wondering, how long does it actually take for a person to learn 'enough' Java to start making a android app?
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Click to collapse
That really depends on his experience. I had some experience and I read the head first book and started. Of course, I learned afterwards, too. And of course, I am still learning. You do not need the UI things and stuff like this. You should understand Collections, inner classes and interfaces, though.
In case of doubt, start with the Android part and if you do not know something related to Java, search what it is. Learning by doing.
However, I cannot understand the order of some of the videos. I think that ToggleButtons (23) are not as important as RelativeLayouts (44).

Just finished watching the beginner section of Java from his vids. Probably going to watch the 'intermediate' vids tomorrow or probably forget about watching the vids and just read the book...

TwilightLoz said:
Just finished watching the beginner section of Java from his vids. Probably going to watch the 'intermediate' vids tomorrow or probably forget about watching the vids and just read the book...
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Click to collapse
I must say, stick it out the hard way. Automated-app builders will not teach you anything.
I say this because I myself have been developing Android apps for ~2 years. I had NO prior experience or knowledge in how any programming language was used or written. Now, through determination, I have 3 (still learning, so still basic) apps on the market.
I have self-taught myself Android(java) with the help of a few YouTube videos. I also learned some SQLite which will be used for all android databases, XML, and HTML. All which I have implemented into my apps.
So what I guess I'm trying to say is, if I can learn all of this in ~2 years by myself (albeit you'll run into many educational mistakes) then nothing is impossible. I didn't even make it through high school shamefully.
Regardless, knowledge is power. An auto-app will not do any justice IMO. Android is not the best starting point, but if you already understand programming logic, you should be alright.
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Learn my friend! That's what XDA is about.
I'd say definetly get familiar with the general activity lifecycle, learn some basic things like intents and such, then think about something simple you want to try, and find out how other people are doing it. (Look for guides, or study open source apps etc.)
i've been teaching myself over most of the last year and am super impressed by what I;ve managed to figure out how to do. I still got years to go before I'd call myself a "good" developer, but just keep pluggin away.
It all depends on how you like to learn too. I read tons, and tried watchign videos, but I do much better by just jumping in and fixing errors as I go. then before you know it, you'll be able to do a lot of things. For me I found it became a lot easier when I started breaking stuff up into single parts. like If I want some app with a listview that goes to a webview, I'd make a simple Main Activiy with a list view, then make a new project with just the webview, then worry about linking a couple things together.
Every body learns different though.
Good luck!
(plus I think MIT, even though it's a neat idea, just helps to clog the playstore with junky apps.)

[Q]I Want to Learn All Java

Where should I start for this?First which tutorial?

Try this if you have trouble reading, pull down top select 3 dot and choose original
https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=9nxdAwAAQBAJ

I don't know what kind of programming experience you have, but I think the Head First Java is a fairly good book for beginners, especially if you haven't programmed a lot earlier. It only assumes understanding very basic stuff and nothing more. Please note that this is a general Java book, so you will need extra material for getting started with Android.
http://www.headfirstlabs.com/books/hfjava/

And if books arent your thing. Then check out thenewboston his youtube channel has some simply awesome tutorials for java. Ive went through the first 40. And im very impressed. He explains everything very well.

Books And Videos
Books: (A lot many are repeated if you refer all the books. I would say that if you don't know anything start with either 1/2)
1. Java The Complete Reference
2. Java - Head First
3. Java Black Book
4. SCJP- Sun Certified Programmer for Java
5. Java Cookbook (to get solutions to specific types of problems)
6. Java Network Programming
Videos:
New Boston

Tutorialspoint
Javatpoint
Geeksforgeek
These are really good website .
Good luck!
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I realize you've probably already learned a lot of Java, and that as a beginner myself I do not have much experience, but if you're willing to pay for it, teamtreehouse.com is VERY good learning idea. I did the free trial and I'm wishing I had the money to pay for the service. Or eternal free access. It has tutorials on some of the most popular codes and even a workspace right from the site. It also has an (that has a few very annoying bugs on android - don't know about the ios version).
I was wondering if anyone has watched and followed mybringback's YouTube tutorials for Java and how good they are to learn from the very beginning of Java? I am using them to first learn basic applications, eventually to use the things I learn to build a game that my little sister came up with. I eventually will port this game to Android as well (I really don't care enough about Apple -or like enough- to learn Swift).
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