I've been coding on my own for about two months now and I really enjoy it, even though I didn't major in computer science. I've been tackling problems on Codewars, but when I get stuck, I've been using GPT to guide me. It helps explain the code step by step, and I try to understand everything line by line. I'm wondering if this is a good way to learn programming or if it's making me overly reliant on AI. How can I maximize my learning during this self-study journey while using AI effectively? What should I focus on when asking GPT questions to ensure I'm really learning rather than just memorizing solutions?
5 Answers
Over-relying on AI can stunt your critical thinking growth. If you keep letting tools like GPT do the heavy lifting, you risk losing out on developing your own research skills and problem-solving abilities. Learning programming means being okay with making mistakes, fixing them, and understanding different perspectives. Don't shy away from the challenge!
Here’s a solid way to build your programming skills:
1. Choose a programming language.
2. Install the necessary tools.
3. Get a beginner-level book and stick to it.
4. Practice coding the examples in the book.
5. Make sure you really grasp how the code works before moving on.
6. Revisit chapters to reinforce your understanding. This process requires time and patience, but it’s effective!
I wouldn't recommend depending too much on GPT, especially when you're just starting out. It's important to come up with your own solutions rather than just analyzing answers provided by AI. A good approach is to tackle programming projects you're passionate about and do thorough research on your own as you learn. Engaging with something you care about can really deepen your understanding and help you discover what programming is all about. For example, I started by creating mods for Minecraft, and it taught me more than any class ever could!
The real learning happens when you struggle with problems and find your own solutions. Using AI can sometimes trick you into thinking you understand something just because it explained it easily. But when you face a real project, you might freeze without that AI. Instead, use tools like AI to assist your thought process. Let it guide your thinking rather than solving everything for you. It's way more rewarding to break the code and understand how to fix it from scratch!
No pain, no gain! Since you're still at the beginning, challenge yourself with tougher problems. You might find it easier to do what you're already doing, but pushing your limits is where real growth happens. Step out of your comfort zone!
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