Hey everyone! I'm 23 and currently studying at an Australian university that honestly feels more like a run-of-the-mill college compared to others. I've been struggling with learning how to code, particularly with languages like Python. I have ADHD and chronic depression, which makes it hard for me to stay focused and motivated. I've tried taking a CS50P course, but I couldn't get past the 'Hello, World!' stage. I feel overwhelmed by all the complicated projects others share on platforms like GitHub and LinkedIn. I'm halfway through my IT degree and feeling pretty lost and hopeless. I really want to learn how to code but I need some advice or encouragement from those who have been successful developers. Is there any hope for me?
3 Answers
Listen, I can relate to your frustration as I've been through the tech grind myself. The key is to break things down into simpler tasks. Start with the fundamentals—try building something very basic, like a simple game or a number checker. The practical side of coding means you learn by just diving in. Don’t stress about what others are doing; focus on your journey. And remember, it's okay to switch tracks if programming doesn't feel right. Just keep pushing forward!
You might want to check out CS50’s specific language courses. They really start from the basics and have plenty of practice exercises, which can help clear up any confusion. Plus, they offer a free certificate!
Here’s what works for me: choose a language or framework, take a quick course to grasp the basics, and find a small, fun project to create. When you hit errors—and you will—look them up and learn from them. Rinse and repeat with progressively bigger projects. You'll see improvements over time!
Great tips! But I totally get how daunting that jump feels, especially with ADHD. Maybe start even smaller, like just getting the computer to display your name before diving into projects!