For most small apps a relational database such as MySQL, PostgreSQL or SQLite is the safer default. Your data almost always has relations (users, orders, comments) and SQL handles those well. Reach for a document store when your data really is schemaless.

Pick Python. The syntax is readable, it runs everywhere and there is a library for almost every office task: spreadsheets, PDFs, email and web pages. Learn variables, loops, functions and files, then automate one real task you do every week. Week 1-2: basics W…