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Basic

BASIC (Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) is a high-level programming language family designed for beginners, created by John G. Kemeny and Thomas E. Kurtz at Dartmouth College in the 1960s to provide computer access to non-professionals. It offers a simple syntax and ease of use, making it accessible to those new to programming. Over the years, BASIC has evolved into various dialects that incorporate structured programming, modern language elements like object-oriented constructs, and tools for graphical user interface design.

BASIC’s straightforward syntax features English-like keywords and minimalistic structure, making it an attractive choice for beginners. This simplicity allows newcomers to quickly grasp programming concepts while still providing advanced features through its evolution. Despite facing competition from languages like C, Pascal, Java, and Python—which offer efficiency, platform independence or readability—BASIC maintains relevance due to its user-friendly design and adaptability across different computing systems.

With its origins aimed at non-professionals seeking computer access, BASIC remains ideal for individuals new to programming or looking for a gentle introduction to coding concepts. Its continued inclusion of structured programming support and GUI design tools ensures it meets the needs of both novice learners and experienced developers requiring a straightforward development environment for rapid prototyping or educational purposes. Thus, BASIC holds a unique niche in the programming world by balancing simplicity with functionality across diverse applications.

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