I've been learning programming languages like Python, Node.js, JavaScript, and React, and while I grasp the basics pretty well, I freeze up when it's time to code on my own. Watching YouTube tutorials helps, but as soon as I try to work independently, I feel lost. I had an internship where I did okay with AI assistance for frontend tasks, but when I switched to backend coding, I panicked and ended up quitting after just a few days, feeling like I couldn't contribute. Even when I try to start my own projects, I often just sit there for hours unable to get going. I truly want to become a full-stack developer and dive into machine learning, but this fear of coding is holding me back. What can I do to overcome this?
5 Answers
It sounds like you could benefit from what’s called exposure therapy for coding! Just dive into projects without worrying too much about making mistakes. If you freeze up, see if you can break down what you're trying to do into smaller steps. And if something doesn't work out, don’t be too hard on yourself; just treat it as part of the learning process. Everyone faces these hurdles.
Stop consuming content all the time. Try coding snippets based on your own understanding rather than just copying from videos. You need to challenge yourself to apply what you've learned without external help. Set basic goals for yourself, like coding a simple app or solving small problems just to get comfortable. Also, understand that every developer started right where you are; it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed!
Sounds like you just need to find the right balance with resources. While it’s good to look up syntax and specific issues, lean more on trying to code things yourself first. If you get stuck, then look for help. By doing this, you're training yourself to problem-solve rather than relying on AI or tutorials to do the work for you. Just jump in and start coding; even if you make mistakes, you're still learning!
You should definitely consider practicing more regularly. Just like with sports, understanding the theory doesn't mean you're good at it until you practice. Try to write out everything you want to code without looking up solutions immediately. Build simple applications and don't stress about getting it right the first time. Also remember, quitting your internship might seem like the easy way out, but it’s a learning experience. Your colleagues are there to help you, so lean on them while you grow your skills.
The big issue seems to be reliance on tutorials and AI for coding. You need to step away from that and start tackling projects on your own, no matter how simple. Begin with small, manageable tasks and gradually expand in complexity. Programming is about learning to break down problems and finding the solutions yourself. It’s great to have resources, but you really need to get your hands dirty and practice coding without shortcuts. You’ll find that building your confidence comes with experience, so try starting from the basics and expand.
I totally agree! I started out the same way and had to learn to just dive in without overthinking. Starting small really helps.
Exactly! And think of coding as more of a journey. Everyone starts somewhere, and making mistakes is just part of the learning process.