So you’re just setting foot into the thrilling world of data science, and you’ve probably heard the names R and Python tossed around as the languages of the data gods. But which should you learn first?
Learning a programming language isn’t like choosing a life partner; you’re not stuck with your first choice forever. Both R and Python are excellent tools with their pros and cons.
Before diving into the R vs. Python debate, let’s briefly discuss data science. Data science is the field where statistics, programming, and domain knowledge combine to extract insights from data. Whether it’s predicting election outcomes, recommending Netflix shows, or analyzing medical data, data science is everywhere.
The R Programming Language
Origin and Philosophy
R was created in 1993 and was primarily developed for statisticians and data miners. It’s a language that focuses on making data analysis and statistical work as smooth as possible.
Syntax
R’s syntax is highly user-friendly. This is especially helpful for those who need to gain prior programming experience.
Pros
- Excellent for Statistical Analysis and Data Visualization
