I'm trying to learn libraries such as Python's socket library, but I often forget how to use them and struggle to understand the documentation. Do programmers usually follow video tutorials while coding, or is there a better way to learn? I'd also like to rely less on AI, and I have a weak memory, so I'm not sure whether this is a normal learning problem or something I'm doing wrong.
3 Answers
It’s completely normal to look things up, even for experienced developers. Before AI tools became common, programmers searched the web and consulted documentation constantly. Videos can help when you need a broad introduction, but for a specific function or edge case, reading the relevant documentation is usually faster. The best way to retain it is to build something small and revisit the same library through practice.
A good IDE can handle much of the typing problem through autocomplete, parameter hints, and syntax checking. Try writing a small program in an environment such as PyCharm, and use those tools while referring to the official documentation. You’ll gradually remember the parts you use often without needing to memorize everything upfront.
You don’t need to memorize every function name or argument. Most programmers remember the general concepts and the names of commonly used features, then use IDE autocomplete and documentation when they forget exact syntax. Documentation is usually more like a reference guide than a book you read from beginning to end. Use tutorials or videos to learn the overall design, then look up specific details as you build small projects.
That makes sense. My main problem is forgetting how to use the library at all, not just forgetting individual function names.