How Can I Move Beyond the Basics of Programming?
Asked by
CuriousCoder92
I'm a complete beginner in programming, having created a simple platformer in Unity and done some animations with Turtle Graphics in JavaScript. Though I've been interested in programming for several years, I can't start formal education yet since I'm still in high school. I've participated in some government-funded public programming courses with peers and completed four total. I've become good at the course activities, but I'm feeling a bit lost now. I've learned about variables, conditionals, loops, functions, tables, and libraries, but it all feels pretty basic. My teachers keep saying I need to start creating my own projects, but I'm unsure how to proceed. What should I do next?
Answers
You've made great progress! But it's time for a reality check: build something of your own without following a course. It might feel tougher than just completing assignments, but it’s where the real learning happens. And don't hesitate to reach out to resources like books on design patterns and clean coding techniques. They can really push your programming skills further.
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There's so much more to learn—trust me, you'll never run out of topics! I recommend diving into books about algorithms, software design, and best practices. Start with these classics: 'The Art of Computer Programming' by Knuth, 'Design Patterns' by Gamma et al., and 'Refactoring' by Fowler. Familiarize yourself with the core ideas, and don't hesitate to start implementing what you learn. It’s a pivotal step in your development.
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Don't stress! It’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. No one ever learns it all. A great resource is the Python course from the link I shared. You can focus on areas where you feel the need for improvement. Also, start creating simple programs like a console-based to-do app to get practical experience. Those small projects will help solidify your skills!
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Your teachers are spot on! The best way to grow is to start making your own projects. Since you've enjoyed working on the platformer, why not expand it or try a new project? Even if you don’t have a specific idea, consider replicating a simple game first. Real growth comes when you tackle new challenges outside of structured courses. You might also want to explore software architecture concepts as you take on bigger projects.
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