Hey everyone! I'm diving into programming and I've noticed that I rely pretty heavily on AI tools and YouTube tutorials. While they help me grasp concepts, I find myself struggling to code independently. I really want to know how more experienced developers learned to write code on their own.
Here are a few things I'm curious about:
* Did you focus on specific types of projects as you learned?
* What strategies did you use for problem-solving beyond tutorials and without AI assistance?
* What habits or resources helped you build the confidence to write production-quality code?
* Any real-world advice you'd be willing to share?
3 Answers
You have to embrace the struggle! When I learned, I hit roadblocks constantly, but getting through those hurdles taught me more than any tutorial ever could. Use resources for concepts as support, but don’t let them dominate your learning. It’s normal to feel confused; just keep pushing through and experimenting. This persistence will build your confidence and skills over time.
To move forward in coding, focus on creating your own projects rather than consuming content. Think of small, manageable tasks you can set time limits for. After each project, reflect on your achievements and the areas where you faced issues. Also, reading programming books can complement your hands-on work nicely. Books can deepen your understanding without just following along a tutorial.
Great advice! Books often provide context and depth that tutorials just skim over. It’s worth picking up a few of the classics.
First off, you might want to consider limiting your use of AI. Relying on it can make it harder to learn how to debug your own code. Instead, spend time practicing. Nothing compares to hands-on experience, and getting your hands dirty with actual coding tasks is the best way to develop that 'real developer' mindset. Don't stress too much if you get stuck on tutorials; seeking answers yourself is a sign that you're actively learning!
Exactly! Knowing how to troubleshoot your own problems is crucial. Understanding why certain solutions work can make a huge difference in your learning process.
So true! Every difficulty is an opportunity to learn something new. Don’t shy away from challenges!