Description #
Scratch is a block-based, visual programming language designed to introduce children and beginners to programming. Instead of writing code, users drag and snap blocks together to build animations, games, stories, and interactive projects — all while learning the logic of programming in a friendly, creative environment.
History #
Scratch was developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab, led by Mitchel Resnick, and first released in 2007.
Major milestones:
- Scratch 1.0 (2007) – introduced desktop-based visual programming
- Scratch 2.0 (2013) – moved the platform to the web
- Scratch 3.0 (2019) – modernized the interface and added HTML5 support, making it mobile- and tablet-friendly
Today, Scratch is used in over 150 countries and is translated into more than 70 languages. It’s taught in schools and coding clubs around the world.
Hello World Code #
In Scratch, there is no typed code. You build a program using visual blocks. A simple “Hello World” project might use the following blocks:
when green flag clicked
say "Hello, World!" for 2 secondsExample Block View:
when green flag clicked
say "Hello, World!" for 2 seconds
How to Run #
- Go to https://scratch.mit.edu/
- Click Create in the top menu
- Drag the
when green flag clickedandsayblocks into the editor - Click the green flag to run your program
No installation required — everything runs in the browser.
Key Concepts #
- Visual blocks — snap together like puzzle pieces
- Events — like “when flag clicked” start actions
- Sequencing — blocks run in order from top to bottom
- Loops & conditionals — logic using repeat and if blocks
- Variables — store and update values visually
- Sprites — characters or objects that perform actions
- Stage — the backdrop for all visual elements
- Broadcasting — event messaging between sprites
- Drag-and-drop UI — eliminates syntax errors
- Ideal for beginners and young learners
Try It Online #
🔗 Scratch Editor
🔗 Scratch Project Library
🔗 Scratch Offline Editor
Fun Facts #
- Scratch is named after the scratching technique used by DJs — remixing and combining projects is core to its design
- You can explore millions of public Scratch projects on the Scratch website
- The cat sprite you see by default is Scratch’s mascot
- Scratch encourages creative coding, blending art, music, and storytelling
- It’s often a child’s first step into the world of programming
