Is it better to start with a declarative paradigm or an imperative one?

Question

Programming

Hello!
In which paradigm should you start developing as a programmer: imperative or declarative?
I want to master both paradigms. That is, which way to go: 1) first imperatively, then declaratively; 2) first declarative, then imperative.
What is the best way to develop the thinking of a programmer?

Answer 1

The venerable master Qc Na was walking with his student, Anton. Hoping to prompt the master into a discussion, Anton said "Master, I have heard that objects are a very good thing - is this true?" Qc Na looked pityingly at his student and replied, "Foolish pupil - objects are merely a poor man's closures."
Chastised, Anton took his leave from his master and returned to his cell, intent on studying closures. He carefully read the entire "Lambda: The Ultimate..." series of papers and its cousins, and implemented a small Scheme interpreter with a closure-based object system. He learned much, and looked forward to informing his master of his progress.
On his next walk with Qc Na, Anton attempted to impress his master by saying "Master, I have diligently studied the matter, and now understand that objects are truly a poor man's closures." Qc Na responded by hitting Anton with his stick, saying "When will you learn? Closures are a poor man's object." At that moment, Anton became enlightened.

Anton van Straaten The
best way to develop the brain is just the search for connections between entities. Consider the language you are writing in. Usually, there is a most accepted paradigm for the chosen language, use it, but try to think about how it could be implemented with a different paradigm, what would be the advantages and disadvantages.

Answer 2

Studying anyone will develop thinking)
But seriously, I recommend that you decide what is more interesting for you to program and develop in this direction - it will be clearer with the paradigm there.

Answer 3

Agree with previous speakers. Studying each will develop the programmer's thinking, but here's what I want to point out:
I think I'm not lying if I say that after all, the imperative approach is simpler. After all, it is taught in schools and universities. But the solutions it provides are not always as elegant, extensible and fast as they could be. Therefore, I would advise you to start with it. It is possible that I write this way precisely because I myself went down this path. Be sure that if you start your journey with a declarative approach, no one will tell you that you have gone the wrong way. Here the main zeal and love for what you do. Good luck!