I'm currently pursuing a PhD in Linguistics, focusing on Natural Language Processing (NLP). To be honest, I haven't really coded much myself; I've primarily relied on AI tools and YouTube tutorials to get my projects off the ground. For instance, I set up a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipeline using a GPT model and have been inputting my academic essays and documents into it for analysis. While it's functional, I don't fully grasp the underlying concepts.
My doctorate doesn't specifically require programming skills—my training is in applied linguistics—but I'm eager to learn coding to deepen my expertise in NLP and keep pace with the rapid developments in the field. I'm not a fan of just copying code without understanding it, but I also realize that many programmers likely use references like Stack Overflow or documentation frequently. I'm curious about the balance in programming: how much is rote memorization and how much is about knowing how to source and interpret information?
Additionally, I'd appreciate any suggestions on how to get started with learning Python and building a solid foundation in NLP.
3 Answers
I rarely copy and paste code myself. I believe newer programmers tend to do that out of necessity, but developing a comprehensive understanding is crucial. If you're serious about programming, consider picking a full-fledged language. Python is a solid choice, but if you want real depth, languages like C++ or C# are worth exploring. They can give you a solid foundation for various applications, including NLP.
Honestly, I think copying code is a pretty normal part of the learning process, especially for beginners. But if you really want to dive deeper into NLP, look for courses or books that bridge Python basics with NLP concepts like embeddings and transformers. It’ll make the transition smoother.
Have you considered taking an introductory programming course at your school? That could be a great way to learn the fundamentals without using AI tools. It’ll help you build your own coding skills from the ground up.
I completely agree, but there’s nothing wrong with copying code as long as you understand its functionality. It’s part of the learning curve!