Learning a Programming Language.. Where to start?

[tantalus220]

I'm looking to dive into the art of programming but have absolutely no idea where to start. I have been told that C++ is an option but perhaps its a little too advanced for a begginner? My main purpose for learning a programming language is to caclulate scientiffic formulas etc. and maybe even graphing them at some point: whether that be an output file for Excel or an actual drawn image. Can anyone recommend a language, books, and/or where I can get a hold of some cheap software to get me started?

Thanks for your input!

 

[Tedster]

Take a course at your local college.

 

[Nodsu]

For such a specific task, you may be better off using Excel for your formulas or go for something hardcore like MathCAD instead of some generic programming language.

 

[Fragrant Coit]

Java is completely free.

We used the Blue Jay compiler at Uni, there's heaps of support forums, or grab a few books from the library.