<p><pre><code> 1 Pick an Interesting Language
2 Learn the Syntax
3 Pick a Problem
4 Solve the Problem
5 Goto 3 if Done
6 Goto 1 after 1--2 Years
</code></pre>
As for problems, <a href="http://rubyquiz.com/" rel="nofollow">http://rubyquiz.com/</a> and <a href="http://programmingpraxis.com/" rel="nofollow">http://programmingpraxis.com/</a> are good starting resources.<p>To learn the syntax of a language, just search for the language and the word "tutorial". Pick a site and read through the material provided.<p>If you can't decide on a language, try:<p><a href="http://www.ruby-doc.org/docs/ProgrammingRuby/" rel="nofollow">http://www.ruby-doc.org/docs/ProgrammingRuby/</a><p><a href="http://mislav.uniqpath.com/poignant-guide/" rel="nofollow">http://mislav.uniqpath.com/poignant-guide/</a>