I've been working with Python for a year now while studying computer science, but I'm feeling really stuck on how to improve my programming skills. I try solving problems on platforms like LeetCode, but I only manage a few easy ones and get lost on the rest. When I watch project tutorials on YouTube, I often just copy what they do instead of truly learning. I feel like I'm not making any progress, even with various online courses. Should I learn other programming languages, or are there better courses out there that can help me? What steps should I take to grow my skills?
3 Answers
You're definitely on the right track by recognizing that just copying code won’t help. Instead of following tutorials exactly, try to create your own projects. If you get stuck on something, do some research to understand how it works before moving on. Think of these tutorials as just starting points; your real learning happens when you embrace the struggle and find solutions on your own!
I totally understand where you're coming from! Be patient with yourself. You might benefit from picking a project that you’d like to build from start to finish. Focus on learning how to break down problems and solve them with what you already know. When you hit a wall, that’s the time to look for tutorials or materials that teach you the specific skills you need at that moment. It’s all about the journey!
LeetCode can be tough; even seasoned programmers struggle with some problems. Start by identifying what areas of programming excite you—web development, app creation, AI, etc. Once you know that, pick a small project to work on. Always remember to seek to understand the code you write. Patience is key—don’t just copy; learn the syntax and how everything works! Plus, leveraging AI tools can assist you in learning and debugging along the way.
While AI can be helpful, don't rely too much on it. You want to make sure you're really grasping the concepts rather than just getting answers. Always experiment yourself until you find what works and what doesn’t!