Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised Jul 10, 2026

Basic-256

Basic-256 is a project to learn the basics of computer programming. The project started in 2007 inspired by the article “Why Johnny can't code” by David Brin, which also inspired the creation of Microsoft Small Basic. Its main focus is to provide a simple and comprehensive environment for middle/high school students to learn the basics of computer programming.

Last revised
Jul 10, 2026
Read time
≈ 1 min
Length
290 w
Citations
5
Source
Basic-256
DevelopersIan Larsen & James M. Reneau
Stable release
2.0.0.11 / June 30, 2020 (2020-06-30)
Operating systemCross-platform
TypeProgramming language
LicenseGPL
Websitebasic256.org
Repository

Basic-256 is a project to learn the basics of computer programming.1 The project started in 2007 inspired by the article “Why Johnny can't code” by David Brin, which also inspired the creation of Microsoft Small Basic.2 Its main focus is to provide a simple and comprehensive environment for middle/high school students to learn the basics of computer programming.3

Basic-256 started as a simple version of BASIC: the code editor, text output window and graphics display window are all visible in the same screen.4 However, successive versions have added new features,5 namely:

  • Files (Eof, Size) – Version 9.4d
  • Mouse events – Version 9.4d
  • Sprites handling – Version 0.9.6n
  • Database functions – Version 0.9.6y
  • Network – Version 0.9.6.31
  • Real Functions and Subroutines – Version 0.9.9.1
  • Maps (Dictionaries) – Version 2.0.0.1

Complete documentation is available in English, Russian, Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese.

See also

See also

References

References

  1. "Basic-256". Think Penguin. Retrieved 2024-02-25.
  2. Ratliff Sr., Gary L. (October 2008). "An Alphabet of Computer Languages: BASIC". PCLinuxOS Magazine. Retrieved 2024-02-25.
  3. Williams, Mike (2014). "BASIC-256: computer programming for (complete) beginners". Beta News.
  4. "Learn Programming Fundamentals with Free BASIC-256". TrishTech. 2014-02-11. Retrieved 2024-02-25.
  5. Emms, Steve (2024-11-08). "BASIC-256 – easy to use version of BASIC". LinuxLinks. Retrieved 2024-02-25.
External links