Is Python the best starter programming language?

I've never coded before, but I'm really interested in getting started with programming, maybe as an extracurricular or even something to major in when I get to college. I've heard Python is one of the easiest languages to learn for first-timers. Is this true? Should I start with Python, or is there another language that'd be a better choice?

You're right that Python is often recommended as a good starting language for beginners due to its readability and versatility. It's known for its easy-to-understand syntax and a vast library of modules and libraries, making it suitable for a wide array of projects and purposes, from web development, data science, and even game development.

Another reason Python is suggested often is because it is a high-level language, meaning that it abstracts many low-level details (like memory management), allowing you to focus on learning programming concepts and logic without getting bogged down by more complex aspects of certain other languages.

That being said, there are a couple of other languages that could be a good starting point too, depending on your goals and preferences:

1. JavaScript: If you're interested in web development, JavaScript is the go-to language for front-end development. It is also beginner-friendly, and learning it would help you create dynamic and interactive web pages.

2. Scratch: This is more relevant for younger learners, but if you're an absolute beginner looking for a highly visual and uncomplicated introduction to programming concepts, Scratch might be worth exploring before diving into a text-based language like Python.

Ultimately, the "best" starter language depends on your interests, goals, and learning style. While Python is a great choice, it might be helpful to explore a couple of languages to see what resonates with you. After you've picked up your first programming language, learning additional languages will be much easier because many programming concepts you learn will be transferable.