What will I be doing?

This isn't a business for everyone. But if you have experience programming computers, you can become a freelance computer programmer working at home and making good money. A computer programmer writes instructions for computers in a language that the computer understands. Of course, computers really don't understand the way that humans do. Computers have "understanding" built into their hardware. A computer programmer simply applies the rules of computer understanding.

Most freelance computer programmers don't write system programs, the deepest level of instructions. Instead, they apply programs to specific applications. That is, they instruct accounting software how to keep records for a specific business or industry. So the programmer must know something about programming software as well as the field for which it is written.

What will I need to start?

As a computer programmer, you will be paid for applying what you know about software programs primarily for businesses. So the first step to your home-based business is to learn. Take classes on computers and programming through your local college or trade school. Learn about languages, operating systems, hardware architecture and how they all work.

Most successful computer programmers specialize in one or more related fields. Remember: An expert is someone who knows more and more about less and less. So look to your own experience, training, background and interests for ideas. Consider specializing in programming interactive games, accounting software, sales software, integrated systems, Windows NT systems, communications tools or some other type of software that you find of particular interest.

Who will my customers be?

Many companies, government offices, institutions and individuals need the services of a computer programmer. Most programmers find that businesses are their greatest customer. Some programmers specialize in one or two highly technical areas, such as programming industrial controllers. Others specialize in writing programming with a specific language, such as C++ or Visual Basic.