How to get into Android dev/programming from scratch?!?!

[Guest mcnob]

I've been desperate to get into programming of some sort for quite some time now but have never known where to start.

Can anyone who has the skills possibly offer some advice on the best way to get into Android development from scratch? I've got very basic Linux knowledge and I've tweaked about with Mac OSX but that's where my expertise runs out. I'm very passionate about wanting to do this but it's all so daunting when you try and google the subject.

So, if anyone can offer any tips on where and how to start in Android development/programming, what books may help, any other resources that will need looking at etc., I'm fairly sure I waon't be the only appreciative one round here............ B)

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

[Guest dwok]

Try CommonsWare, I did, looked a good deal to me (books, updated regularly, on-line support). Also check out the Android dev videos, pretty good introductory/ overview stuff.

[Guest JNBarnes]

My advice would be to start out by learning Java, once you have a good handle on that, move onto Dalvik/Android.

There are so many guides and tutorials etc out there for getting started with java, just pick one you like and get stuck in!

The Oracle Forums and Java IRC channels are a great place to ask for advice if you are ever stuck on something.

As for books, they can certainly be helpful, but in my opinion, they are better for teaching advanced techniques/methodologies than the basics. The best thing you can do is jump straight in and get your hands dirty. (That doesnt mean you shouldnt plan before you code!)

If you want practice with certain techniques/algorithms then http://codingbat.com/java is awesome, great instant feedback.

So, just pick an IDE (I recommend netbeans personally, Eclipse seems to be favoured by android people, but im not a fan) and have some fun!

Programming is such a rewarding process, i would recommend it to anyone, i hope you enjoy it!

[Guest mcnob]

Thanks for the replies guys. I'll have a browse tomorrow while at work....... B)