Hey everyone! I've previously asked for tips on how to kickstart my coding journey, and thanks to your advice, I dove into Python. I completed the CS50P course and read a few articles along with the Python documentation (though I didn't understand everything completely, I managed to finish the basic exercises). Now that I have a grasp of the basics, I feel a bit lost about what to tackle next. I've been told that building a project can help, which I tried, but the amount of information out there has been overwhelming. Should I deep-dive into more advanced topics, or keep building my own projects? I've come across suggestions for Udemy courses and other platforms, but I'm unsure of the best direction to take. What do you all recommend based on your experiences? Thanks a lot!
4 Answers
I really recommend learning how computers work in addition to coding. You mentioned CS50P, which is great for Python, but starting with CS50x can provide a stronger foundation on how computers function overall; it was a bit tougher for me, but definitely worth it! Understanding the underlying concepts will really bolster your programming skills as you progress.
There really isn't a "one-size-fits-all" solution here. You should experiment with different learning styles to see what works best for you. Some people thrive on trial-and-error, while others prefer books or video tutorials. It’s about finding what clicks for your personal learning style.
It sounds like you're on the right path! Building something with the skills you have is a great way to learn from mistakes. What you should learn next really depends on your interests. You might want to explore APIs, MongoDB, async programming, or even testing with Pytest. Personally, I saw great improvements when I volunteered to code for a group I'm involved with, as it provided real motivation and a goal. It was a much richer learning experience than just going through a class.
The best way to advance is to find a project that excites you—like maybe a website, a chatbot, or even a data management app! Once you identify your project, figure out the specific skills you need to achieve that. After a few projects, pausing to study fundamental topics like data structures, algorithms, and computer architecture will make you a much more proficient coder. Courses on platforms like Udemy can help with the initial exploration, but don’t forget to wait for those sales; you can snag great courses for as low as $10!
That sounds like a practical project! Just breaking it down into manageable pieces can help make those gaps feel less daunting. Good luck with your app!
Thanks for the tip! I actually decided to work on an app for managing patient data, which should be really beneficial at my job. I felt a bit overwhelmed at first with the knowledge gaps, but I appreciate the advice to focus on what I need to learn to get closer to that goal. You've given me a lot to think about, thank you!