Hey everyone! I'm currently diving into backend development and have learned a lot about topics like HTTP/HTTPS, authentication methods (like sessions and JWT), caching, validation, API design, and databases. While I've completed the theoretical side of all this, I haven't actually implemented these concepts in real-world projects yet. I'm using Python with Django as I work on developing an end-to-end eCommerce platform, and I'm also picking up Go along the way.
Here's where I'm a bit confused: I moved on to building a custom user model and stumbled upon some terms like BASEUSERMANAGER and ABSTRACTBASEUSER, which I had never encountered before. I was following a tutorial for guidance, and during it, I encountered various new keywords and methods that I wouldn't have known otherwise. This made me realize I'll likely face similar situations in the future.
So, my question is: do I really need to know all these new keywords, syntax, and concepts before I start building? I'm planning to start applying for jobs right after I finish my projects, and honestly, I'm quite anxious about what to expect during the interview process and what recruiters will be looking for. I recognize I have a lot to learn, but I'm feeling a bit stuck at the moment. Sorry if I come across as a newbie!
5 Answers
It’s important to practice what you learn. Learning theories without applying them can lead to a shallow understanding. You should definitely be building projects while you're learning; that way, the concepts will stick much better. Just memorizing code will not serve you well in the long run. Experiencing it hands-on is the best way to solidify your knowledge!
It's great that you've completed the theoretical part! But just watching the tutorials isn't enough. If the tutorial doesn't explain the "why" behind the code, you might not be fully grasping the concepts. Perhaps start with something a bit more basic that allows for practice alongside learning.
Totally agree! If I ever get stuck, I just Google the concepts to understand the logic behind them better.
Instead of fixating on memorizing keywords or syntax, prioritize understanding how to tackle problems. The real challenge comes down to knowing how to use the syntax when needed, and that understanding develops through practice. Keep building projects, and don’t worry about not knowing every detail right away. Just focus on learning progressively!
Wise words! It’s comforting to hear that learning is a gradual process.
You really don't have to memorize everything. It's more about knowing where to find information as needed. In interviews, recruiters care more about your problem-solving skills than your ability to recall syntax. Learning to Google effectively will get you far; experienced developers do it all the time.
This reassures me a lot! I was worried about not knowing everything before interviews.
You definitely don't need to know everything before you start. Focus on the basics first. As you work more, you'll start to recognize patterns and concepts that are universal across programming languages. Learning to effectively read documentation and search for answers is crucial. It's perfectly normal to forget things over time; just make sure you have a solid grasp of the fundamentals, and you'll pick up the practical stuff as you go. Don't stress about it too much; you'll be fine!
Thank you for this! I need to shift my focus to understanding concepts rather than just memorizing code.
Thanks for the advice! I was following a specific tutorial so I focused too much on that without building my own projects.