The backbone of computer science is the logic and the programming language used to write them. In this article, I will suggest 5 golden rules or tips that every programmer should keep in mind while learning any programming language, and anyone who is willing to learn coding from scratch.
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1. There is no “Perfect Programming Language” to Learn
When I started learning to code, there were countless times when I picked one computer language then gave up, again picked other and left it. Believe me, this is a common story with every programmer. During the process of evolution, we humans have developed a tendency that we call as consciousness i.e a person’s awareness or perception of doing something and due to this, our brain is tuned to be confused, changing the decision at every step while learning or doing the things for the first time.
“Which programming language should I start with”? This is the most common question for beginners. Well, the answer is very simple and straightforward i.e. “Any Language”. People may argue it’s Python, it’s Swift, no its C, but they’re all wrong. A programming language is simply a tool and there is no perfect or the best language for a successful programmer. So, stop thinking on selection, pick any of them from the bunch and start writing your code today.
Also, read: 6 Reasons why you suck at programming
2. Code For a Reason i.e. have some Projects.
Have you ever asked a question to yourself that why are you studying and learning anything? Do you have a solid reason to justify your actions and decisions? Well, if not then, think for a moment as this is very important for learning coding especially if you want to be a professional programmer.
Coding requires patience and time, if you think, you can learn it within a week and become a charm then you are fooling yourself. The more regularly you learn to code and practice the more likely it is that you’ll start developing skills and get frequent at using syntax. But the problem is, who follow this philosophy and wordings and who has that much time between working fulltime, seeing family, friends and life admin. When are you supposed to sit down and practice this “daily coding”?
The answer is, your reason, dedication, passion and where it will come from. It will come from projects. It is true that as humans, we have a lot of inertia. once you indulge yourself in coding and making things, see things working live, your interest will grow and this will push you to learn more. Then you don’t need to force yourself to code. So, develop a habit to carry out the task daily for about a month.
Also, Read: Best Ways For New Programmers to Learn Programming
3. It’s ok Not to know at the Beginning
As a beginner, you can’t know the concepts like experienced developers. You should not be impatient and become nervous that you are unable to code and think. As I said it takes time to learn things, so you have to give yourself enough time.
It is found that most of the developers suffer from Imposter syndrome, the psychological phenomenon where people feel like frauds and far underestimate their own skills and abilities. They feel that everyone else is better at programming than them. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone, as studies show that over about 70% of people have this syndrome.
A lot of new programmers are afraid that by checking references, watching tutorials and asking people for help it will out them as a fraud who doesn’t know how to programme. People may tell you that you are a copycat, well let them say and bark. Nobody can hold all the relevant information in their head and I, personally faced this problem many a time. For example,
If I just talk about iOS programming, there are over 800 classes, 9000 methods and growing. No one can memorize all these and become an expert. So, develop your logical skills, think about the algorithm that can solve a given problem. You can always take help by googling and looking at other’s code, just figure out the logic and concept behind them and that’s it.
4. Be a Copycat, Experiment with the Code & Keep Learning
When I was a beginner, I wondered from where to learn and what should be the technique or pattern to learn. I bought books on C/C++, Swift, Python and I had a hard time. I read, forgot, fell asleep. As time passed, I realized if someone gets bored by bookish language and explanation then it could be hard spending time to learn to code. In that case, a better way is media interaction i.e video tutorials.
Books are good as references. If you want to dive deep into the concepts of fundamental programming. But, if you want that it should become a habit then, start making things by watching others. Learn from them, understand the concepts, think, practice and try to make changes and interpret the results of your actions. Make your own notepad, develop the concept that could be anything whatever you desire or get fascinated off.
Something that is new, no one will be able to help you with. By making copycat apps or programs you’ll be treading in the path that many have walked before you. This way you can make things, learn the basics and whenever you get into problems, then you can ask others as well. This will act as a foundation and your coding skills will grow after a certain time.
5. Show Your Work and get a Mentor.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, no one is perfect in this world. Sharing knowledge and thoughts always end up in some kind of betterment and is beneficial to all.
The biggest problem while learning to code is the lack of accountability. No doubt there are lots of great online courses such as Coursera, Udacity, Udemy, Skillshare, and YouTube. But, there is no one to see your work, progress, your code. It’s not just about online courses as I am my self very crazy about the courses offered but, even boot camps and institute even don’t pay any heed to anyone, especially to the new learners.
You need accountability and commitment to learning new things. This is why it is very important to interact with matching up students someone who is also a beginner or experienced ones, whom you trust so that you can show the things and works to them, have some feedback from them on your logic and coding style. This will grow you in a better thinker, problem solver and your mentality will be groomed to accept pieces of advice because, as a professional developer this is very important.
