How can I learn C# from scratch? Thinking of transferring to NinjaTrader

[RosyScenario]

After many years trading futures with Interactive Brokers I need to transfer my futures trading account out of IB (enough is enough!). But I need to replicate my Excel-based trading method. Although there are other brokers that offer Excel-based APIs, as near as I can tell no other broker offers an Excel-based API that can both place and cancel and/or modify orders. And that is what I need. So, I'm thinking of going with NinjaTrader as they require only exchange-minimum margins and they only charge $0.53 per side for ES after buying a Lifetime license.

However, I will need to program NT and apparently it uses C#. I have minimal programming knowledge (just some Excel) but have no problem putting in the effort to learn C# if pointed in the right direction. So, before I transfer my account, is there some resource that I can find or buy (preferably--but not necessarily--focused on trading) where I can learn C# and that assumes no prior programming knowledge?

 

[jj90]

Take an entry level programming course at your local college. Pays off dividends in the long run

 

[kmiklas]

Install the free version of Visual Studio:
https://www.visualstudio.com/vs/visual-studio-express/

Start with the free training vids on YouTube:

Then move on to the Lynda.com ($25/month) C# "Essential Training" course:
https://www.lynda.com/C-tutorials/C-Essential-Training/188207-2.html?srchtrk=index:1 linktypeid:2 q:c#+essential page:1 s:relevance sa:true producttypeid:2

Now get to work. Have them all done by the end of February, and check back with me.

Sincerely,
Keith :^)

 

[Spectre2007]

After many years trading futures with Interactive Brokers I need to transfer my futures trading account out of IB (enough is enough!). But I need to replicate my Excel-based trading method. Although there are other brokers that offer Excel-based APIs, as near as I can tell no other broker offers an Excel-based API that can both place and cancel and/or modify orders. And that is what I need. So, I'm thinking of going with NinjaTrader as they require only exchange-minimum margins and they only charge $0.53 per side for ES after buying a Lifetime license.

However, I will need to program NT and apparently it uses C#. I have minimal programming knowledge (just some Excel) but have no problem putting in the effort to learn C# if pointed in the right direction. So, before I transfer my account, is there some resource that I can find or buy (preferably--but not necessarily--focused on trading) where I can learn C# and that assumes no prior programming knowledge?

I look at examples of code and learn from existing strategies that are coded. I wish I could truly program instead of hiring people to code only parts of concepts. I leave things out in the code so it becomes useless when applied by others.

Ninjatrader has a nice forum to look at code of others. If I could truly code, I can only imagine the results.

 

[ET180]

Lots of lectures on Youtube. But to really begin to understand it, you have to do the programming assignments.

 

[algofy]

I look at examples of code and learn from existing strategies that are coded. I wish I could truly program instead of hiring people to code only parts of concepts. I leave things out in the code so it becomes useless when applied by others.

Ninjatrader has a nice forum to look at code of others. If I could truly code, I can only imagine the results.

Well learn to code then!

 

[ET180]

I look at examples of code and learn from existing strategies that are coded. I wish I could truly program instead of hiring people to code only parts of concepts. I leave things out in the code so it becomes useless when applied by others.

Ninjatrader has a nice forum to look at code of others. If I could truly code, I can only imagine the results.

It's worth learning.

 

[Spectre2007]

I'm 45, with 5 kids from ages 3-12..I only truly have time after everyone is asleep.

Will try to get the kids into it early, programming and quant finance/AI.. just want to be around long enough to pass on what I know.

 

[RosyScenario]

Thanks everyone for your helpful responses. Am I correct in assuming that there is no book for learning programming in C# that is appropriate for someone with little or no prior programming knowledge?

 

[Spectre2007]

Thanks everyone for your helpful responses. Am I correct in assuming that there is no book for learning programming in C# that is appropriate for someone with little or no prior programming knowledge?

This one was recommended to me.