I'm a senior in high school who started coding last year. I've made a few JavaScript projects, including Rock Paper Scissors and Whack-a-Mole, and now I want to move into game development with GameMaker. I tried working with it today, but the visual interface feels overwhelming, especially on my small laptop screen where it is difficult to see everything clearly. For people who taught themselves programming, how did you stay focused and make steady progress when learning on your own?
3 Answers
Game engines can feel confusing because they combine visual editors, drag-and-drop systems, and code without always making the connections obvious. Give yourself time to learn the engine’s workflow instead of expecting it to feel like ordinary JavaScript right away. You may also discover that you enjoy general programming more than game development, or the other way around. Try both kinds of projects and see which one keeps you interested.
If you can find one cheaply, a second monitor would make the editor much easier to manage. Even an older monitor connected with an HDMI cable can give you more room for the workspace, documentation, and tutorials.
Try choosing one main tool and sticking with it for a while instead of constantly switching stacks. Use a comfortable editor, learn the basic workflow, and build small projects consistently. The specific language matters less than learning its grammar and getting familiar with how to think through problems. Also, try not to compare your progress with people who have already spent years coding—being patient with yourself is part of learning.
I’m trying to be more patient with myself, but it’s difficult when I know people who are already making complex mods from scratch. I guess feeling behind is probably normal when you’re starting something new.
So far, regular web development has felt pretty dull to me, while visual tools seem much more creative and appealing. I’m still new, though, so I’ll keep experimenting and see which direction feels right.