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Abstract This article describes how programming languages such as Python and R open up new research opportunities for the humanities by analysing large text corpora, visualising patterns in data and automating repetitive tasks. Python and R are probably the most prominent programming languages for engaging in the Digital Humanities. Python offers advantages for text analysis and machine learning due to its simple syntax and versatile libraries, while R scores with its statistical functions and visual representation options for data manipulation. The choice between Python and R therefore depends on the specific research requirements, although both languages are well suited to the humanities due to their strong communities and extensive resources. Learning strategies for getting started with programming and how to deal with potential pitfalls are also discussed.

Keywords Programming Languages, Python, R, Humanities, Digitization, Digital Education