Program vs. Programming — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on April 30, 2024
Program refers to a set of coded instructions for a computer to follow, while programming is the act of creating these instructions.
Difference Between Program and Programming
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A program is a complete and executable set of instructions that tells a computer exactly what to do, typically comprising code in a programming language. On the other hand, programming is the comprehensive process of designing, writing, testing, debugging, and maintaining the source code of these programs.
In computing, a program is often the final output delivered for execution, such as software applications or operating systems. Whereas programming involves the use of programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ to create these programs.
Programs are static, meaning they do not change unless manually updated or rewritten. In contrast, programming is a dynamic and ongoing activity that can involve continual revisions and improvements to a program’s code.
While a program is usually designed to perform a specific task or a set of tasks, programming is a skill and field of study that teaches how to construct these tasks effectively.
Programs can be as simple as a single line of code or as complex as a suite of software services, reflecting the scope of tasks they are designed to perform. Conversely, programming is an expansive field that covers various methodologies and techniques, from procedural programming to object-oriented programming.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A set of coded software instructions.
The process of creating and maintaining software.
Purpose
To execute a specific task or operation
To design, write, and test software programs.
Nature
Static
Dynamic
Skill Required
Understanding to use or operate
Technical skill in coding and software design
Example Tools
Executable files, scripts
IDEs, compilers, debuggers
Compare with Definitions
Program
A scheduled set of activities or events.
The theater's program includes a play and an intermission.
Programming
The action or process of writing computer code.
Programming in Java requires understanding of object-oriented concepts.
Program
A sequence of instructions written to perform a specified task for a computer.
A simple Python program might calculate and print the sum of two numbers.
Programming
Solving problems by designing and testing logical sequences.
Programming often involves using algorithms to solve complex issues.
Program
A broadcast show or series.
The network aired a new program at 9 PM.
Programming
The occupation or profession of writing computer software.
She has been programming for a leading tech company.
Program
A plan or system under which action may be taken toward a goal.
The government's recycling program aims to reduce waste.
Programming
The activity of creating digital content and instructions.
Web programming involves HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Program
A software application designed for end-users.
Microsoft Word is a program used for document editing.
Programming
Structuring or planning actions to be performed.
Event programming requires careful timing and coordination.
Program
A listing of the order of events and other pertinent information for a public presentation.
Programming
The process of writing computer programs
Programming languages
Program
The presentation itself
A program of piano pieces.
Programming
The process of scheduling something, especially radio or television programmes
The programming of shows
Program
A scheduled radio or television show.
Programming
The designing, scheduling, or planning of a program, as in broadcasting.
Program
An ordered list of events to take place or procedures to be followed; a schedule
A program of physical therapy for a convalescent.
Programming
Broadcast programs considered as a group
The network's Thursday night programming.
Program
A system of services, opportunities, or projects, usually designed to meet a social need
"Working parents rely on the center's after-school latchkey program" (New York Times).
Programming
The writing of a computer program.
Program
A course of academic study; a curriculum.
Programming
(broadcasting) The designing, scheduling or planning of a radio or television program/programme.
The network changed its programming to mess with DVRs again.
Program
A plan or system of academic and related or ancillary activities
A work-study program.
Programming
The design and scheduling of a performance such as ballet.
Program
A plan or system of nonacademic extracurricular activities
The football program.
Programming
(computing) The act of writing a computer program.
Management wanted to know how much programming the project would need.
Program
A set of coded instructions that enables a machine, especially a computer, to perform a desired sequence of operations.
Programming
The software that controls a machine, or the logic expressed in such software; operating instructions.
A robot's programming doesn't allow for love.
Program
An instruction sequence in programmed instruction.
Programming
Brain-washing.
Program
All or part of the genetic code of a cell or organism.
Programming
(psychology) A conditioned response.
Program
A characteristic sequence of developmental or behavioral events in a cell or organism, often considered to result from the expression of genes.
Programming
Present participle of program
Program
A stimulus or training sequence that causes an organism to exhibit a behavior, as by conditioning.
Programming
Present participle of programme
I was programming a new module for the software package.
He was programming the VCR.
Program
To include or schedule in a program
Program a new musical composition.
Programming
Setting an order and time for planned events
Program
To design a program for; schedule the activities of.
Programming
Creating a sequence of instructions to enable the computer to do something
Program
To provide (a machine) with a set of coded working instructions.
Program
To stimulate or train to perform automatically in a specified way
Consumers who have been programmed to buy brand names.
Program
To prepare an instructional sequence for (material to be taught) in programmed instruction.
Program
To provide (a cell or organism, for example) with a genetic program
Cells that are programmed to produce insulin.
Program
To cause (an effect or action) by means of a genetic program; determine genetically
"The basic housekeeping duties that a human and a yeast cell must perform are the same and are programmed by recognizably similar genes inherited from a common, single-celled ancestor" (Nicholas Wade).
Program
A set of structured activities.
Our program for today’s exercise class includes swimming and jogging.
Program
A leaflet listing information about a play, game or other activity.
The program consisted of ads for restaurants and the credits of everyone connected with the play.
Program
(politics) A set of principle goals which are supported by a political party or individual candidate
Program
(broadcasting) A performance of a show or other broadcast on radio or television.
Tonight’s program was hosted by Johnny Carson.
Program
(computing) A software application, or a collection of software applications, designed to perform a specific task.
The program runs on both Linux and Microsoft Windows.
Program
A particular mindset or method of doing things.
Program
(transitive) To enter a program or other instructions into (a computer or other electronic device) to instruct it to do a particular task.
He programmed the DVR to record his favorite show.
Program
(transitive) To develop (software) by writing program code.
I programmed a small game as a demonstration.
Program
(transitive) To put together the schedule of an event.
Mary will program Tuesday’s festivities.
Program
(broadcasting) To schedule the programming; to determine what will be broadcast.
Program
(transitive) To cause to automatically behave in a particular way.
The lab rat was programmed to press the lever when the bell rang.
Program
Same as Programme.
Program
A system of projects or services intended to meet a public need;
He proposed an elaborate program of public works
Working mothers rely on the day care program
Program
A series of steps to be carried out or goals to be accomplished;
They drew up a six-step plan
They discussed plans for a new bond issue
Program
(computer science) a sequence of instructions that a computer can interpret and execute;
The program required several hundred lines of code
Program
An integrated course of academic studies;
He was admitted to a new program at the university
Program
A radio or television show;
Did you see his program last night?
Program
A performance (or series of performances) at a public presentation;
The program lasted more than two hours
Program
A document stating the aims and principles of a political party;
Their candidate simply ignored the party platform
They won the election even though they offered no positive program
Program
An announcement of the events that will occur as part of a theatrical or sporting event;
You can't tell the players without a program
Program
Arrange a program of or for;
Program the 80th birthday party
Program
Write a computer program
Common Curiosities
What is a computer program?
A computer program is a sequence of instructions that directs a computer to perform specific operations.
How are programs used?
Programs are used to operate computers and execute specific tasks, from simple calculations to running complex systems.
Is programming hard to learn?
Programming can be challenging but is manageable with study and practice, particularly with the many resources available today.
What are common programming languages?
Some common programming languages include Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript.
What are the basics of programming?
Basics of programming include understanding syntax, variables, control structures, data structures, and algorithms.
What tools do programmers use?
Programmers use tools such as integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems, and debugging tools.
What does programming entail?
Programming involves creating, testing, debugging, and maintaining the software code that makes up computer programs.
What's the difference between a script and a program?
A script is typically a simpler and shorter set of code that automates tasks within a larger program or system.
Can you give an example of a simple program?
A simple program might be a Python script that prints "Hello, World!" to the screen.
How is software developed?
Software is developed through the phases of design, coding, testing, and deployment, often repeated iteratively.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
