A programming language is a set of rules instructing the computer what operations to perform.

1. Machine Language � the lowest level, represents data as ls and Os � binary digits corresponding to the on and off electrical states in the computer.
2. Assembly Language � use letters as mnemonic codes to replace the Os and 1s of machine language.
3. High Level Language � are written in an English like manner.
4. Very High Level Language � called fourth generation languages (4GLs), are basically nonprocedural.
5. Natural Languages � Fifth generation languges are often called natural languages because they resemble "natural human language.