"What's the best way to learn coding as a complete beginner?"

Start with one language - I'd suggest Python or JavaScript (Python if you're interested in data/automation, JavaScript if you want to build websites). Ignore the 'which language is best' debates - they're mostly noise. Build things from day one. Even if it's just a calculator or a to-do list. Tutorial hell is real - watching videos will feel like learning but isn't. You learn by getting stuck, googling, trying things, breaking things, fixing things. freeCodeCamp, The Odin Project, or CS50 on edX are all solid free starting points. Pick one and commit to it for at least 8 weeks before switching. Most important: code every day, even for just 30 minutes. Consistency beats intensity.

Pick Python. Don't debate this for 3 weeks. Just pick Python. Then: freeCodeCamp or CS50. Do the exercises. Build the projects. When you get stuck (you will), Google the exact error message in quotes. Stack Overflow is your new best friend. The secret nobody tells you: programming is mostly being confused, googling things, and trying stuff until it works. If you're frustrated, you're doing it right. If you're comfortable, you're not learning. Build something YOU want to exist. A bot that texts you weather. A script that organizes your files. Passion projects beat assigned homework.

Start with Python or JavaScript. Use free resources like freeCodeCamp or Codecademy. Practice coding every day. Build small projects to apply what you learn. Don't just watch tutorials - write code yourself. Join online communities for support.