I'm a junior backend developer who recently transitioned from front-end development. Throughout my three years in front-end work, I relied heavily on AI to help me with basic tasks like creating web layouts, testing, and connecting APIs. Now, as I dive into backend development, I find myself often dependent on AI just to write code.
Even though I can understand existing projects and manage tasks once I see the structure, I struggle with critical thinking and originality. I can't even code a simple app without constantly Googling core concepts like syntax, file structures, and component connections. It's like I missed out on crucial learning early in my career.
I've taken around ten backend courses, which gave me a surface-level understanding of the topics, but I still freeze when I need to design something from scratch or connect the various parts of an application. This leads me to wonder if I just lack the innate skills to be a programmer.
I'm really looking to improve and have been thinking about using repetition as a learning method, similar to how I did well in math. If I were to recreate the same application multiple times, would that eventually help me grasp the architecture and reasoning behind programming? Can someone develop logical thinking skills through practice? Any tips would be appreciated!
5 Answers
You're likely stuck in 'Tutorial Hell'—relying too much on tutorials and AI instead of diving in and solving problems yourself. Yes, it’s tough at first and you might feel lost, but creating code from scratch is where the real learning happens. Embrace the struggle!
It sounds like you're leaning a bit too much on AI instead of tackling coding challenges head-on. There’s really no shortcut to becoming proficient. Your determination is a great start! Try using resources like LeetCode or participate in coding events like Advent of Code. These can help improve your problem-solving skills through practice. Just remember, practice makes perfect!
Repetition can work in programming! If you recreate the same application many times, it could help solidify the concepts in your mind. Just remember that logical thinking is a skill that can be developed over time with enough practice. Stick with it!
It seems like you're hesitant to make mistakes, but making those mistakes is key. You won't really learn the reasons behind coding choices until you start experimenting and facing the consequences. Just tackle it directly and allow yourself to fumble a bit—that’s part of the process!
A simple fix could be just to start coding manually without using AI tools at all, even for personal projects. This will help retrain your brain to solve problems independently. You can do this!
Thanks for the suggestion! I think chunking down the problems could really work for me.