Kotlin Introduction

What is Kotlin?

Kotlin is a sleek and modern language crafted by JetBrains in 2016 to simplify and supercharge app development. It's gaining a lot of attention thanks to its clean design and flexibility.

One of Kotlin’s biggest strengths is that it works smoothly with Java — you can even reuse Java code and libraries inside Kotlin projects without any extra setup.

Getting Started with Kotlin in an IDE

The best way to begin your Kotlin journey is by using an IDE — short for Integrated Development Environment. It’s a tool where you can write, run, and test your code easily.

For Kotlin, we recommend using IntelliJ IDEA, a free IDE made by the same team that built Kotlin itself.

Download it here:JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA

Setting Up Kotlin in IntelliJ

• Install IntelliJ on your system.
• Launch IntelliJ and click "New Project".
• On the left sidebar, pick "Kotlin" and name your project.
• Next, you’ll need the Java Development Kit (JDK).
• Click on "Project JDK" → "Download JDK".
• Pick a version (e.g., AdoptOpenJDK 11) and install it.
• Once it’s installed, select the JDK and hit Next → Finish.

Create Your First Kotlin File

• Open the src folder in your project.
• Right-click and select File → Give it a name (like Main).

You’ll now have a file named Main.kt. Let’s write your very first Kotlin program!

fun main() {   
    println("Hello World")
 } 

Running Your Kotlin Code

• Click the Run button at the top menu.
• Choose Run → Mainkt.

The output will show in the bottom console:

Hello World

That’s it! You've written and executed your first Kotlin program.