Computer programming, otherwise known as programming or coding, is the practice of creating the source code of computer programs.  In other words, it is the instructions that make a computer program work correctly.  There is an entire process that is followed in order for the program to be created properly.   Before the actual programming can begin, the requirements need to be defined.  The requirements are documented to capture what exactly the people that are going to be using the application need it to do.  This is the most important process in creating a new application because, if the application gets completed and it doesn’t do what the users need it to do, then it’s back to the drawing board. 
Once the requirements have been documented and all parties agree that they are clear, the designing of the application begins.  The design of the application is the architecture of how the program should be built.  Here the efficiency of the program is considered.  Once the design is complete, that actual building of the application begins.  This is done using a computer language that is able to perform this type of function.  There are different types of computer languages that are designed to do different types of functions.  Some applications are created by control an external device such as a computer printer. On the other hand an application can be created to perform calculations. 
Once the proper computer language is selected and the application is built, there will need to be testing of the code.  This is another critical step in the creation of a new application.  If the proper testing is not completed, the application may be released without being able to meet the original requirements.   During the testing of the application, there are often changes that will need to be made to the code.  Once this is done, the application will be tested again until the application works as intended. 
There is an art to writing a computer program correctly.  There are many ways to make a program work, but there aren’t as many ways to make it work most efficiently.  Knowing how to write a program that is optimized in such a way that is doesn’t consume resources that are not needed takes practice and continuing education.  New programming languages and techniques are coming out all the time and can make a huge difference in the performance of your application.
Looking at all the functions in our everyday lives that are supported by computer programs is overwhelming.  So many that we don’t even realize it anymore.  From the cars we drive to the homes we live in, there is computer program at the root of it all.  The only time we realize how much we use a computer program, is when it’s not working properly like when there is a power outage.  In which case, more often than not, a computer program starts up a process to get the outage restored before we are inconvenienced too much or can implement a backup plan.