Think Java is an excellent introduction to computer science and programming intended for people with little or no experience. We start with the most basic concepts and are careful to define all terms when they are first used. The book presents each new idea in a logical progression. Larger topics, like recursion and object-oriented programming, are divided into smaller examples and introduced over the course of several chapters.

This book is also intended for students preparing for the AP Computer Science A Exam.

This book has been revised and expanded in the second edition, which is available here. This edition will remain available.

Other Resources

  • A print edition is available for purchase via O'Reilly Media or Amazon.
  • The Authors' Website contains more information about the book and provides several other free versions, including a downloadable PDF.
Text © Allen Downey and Chris Mayfield. Interactive HTML © Trinket. Both provided under a CC-NC-BY license. Think Java 1st Edition, Version 6.1.3. 2nd Edition available here.