How Can I Set Daily Learning Targets as a New Programmer?

I recommend focusing on input rather than just output. Set daily targets, but don’t stress too much if you don’t hit every one of them. With time, you’ll get a better sense of your strengths and limits. Remember, quality over quantity is key!

Consider targeting the amount of study time instead of specific tasks. For instance, say you’ll dedicate 30 minutes a day to studying. It helps you maintain consistency rather than getting bogged down by how much you accomplish in a single session.

Try setting targets without strict time limits. Choose a roadmap to guide you and only move on to the next topic when you feel ready. Progress at your own pace, and it’s perfectly fine to revise earlier topics if needed.

Instead of focusing on completing tasks, focus on the habit of studying. Some days you’ll get a lot done and other days you won’t, and that’s okay! Newbies might find that reading textbooks and working through exercises really helps solidify their understanding.

Starting off, it can be really helpful to take a foundational course—CS50X is a great choice. It structures your learning pretty well. Once you're past the newbie phase, tackle small projects and set targets as you go. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.