For web journalists, learning to code — even if it’s just picking up the basics of HTML or CSS — can be just as important as memorizing the AP Stylebook. In the past, ambitious wannabe coders had to stick with how-to guides and computer science classes and frantic e-mails to their programmer friends, but a new interactive website is changing the way we think about learning to code. Codecademy, the brainchild of two Columbia grads, incentivizes developing programming skills with fun interactive lessons, Facebook integration and the chance to score virtual badges.

When you sign up for Codeacademy, you’re taken to a list of lessons that you can complete to earn coding chops and virtual badges. The first lesson, for example, teaches you what exactly you can and can’t do with the command line. It’s great for web journalists looking for a fun way to develop some coding skills in their downtime. Seasoned coders can also help create new tutorials by signing up to be a Codecademy teacher. And the best part about this tool? It’s free.

What do you think of Codecademy?