1. Learn C++ - all hacks (not cheats) are made using C++
2. Learn C# - More useful then VB
3. do what I did > After learning more about C++. I got a old hack source just to see what they did and to just learn more
later I tried to recreate it without C+P (kind of worked out).
4. Look into not just hacks, get into it. Start making random programs. Release only what your proud of.
5. I wouldn't start off with java. Stick with VB.net/C++/C#. I started with C++ and had a much easier time learning other program languages.