To learn Java programming?

[bluedolphin]

How difficult is it to learn Java programming from scratch (a total beginner to programming)?

[darth vader]

Not easy unless you've had prior experience in C++ (the languages are very similar) in which case it is then pi$$ easy to pick up.

....though i'm told it is marginally easier to learn Java than it is to learn C++.

[lisaj]

I've just done 4 years of a computer science degree in Java. I can tell you that the layout and structure of the language is very easy. You'll tear your hear out debugging it's rather eccentric handling of variables though. Basically Java is such a complex and powerful language that the slightest little assumption on your part will bite you in the a$$. This said... get Java-in-a-nutshell and you'll be fine - it's a one-stop indispensible reference.