I've been learning with the MERN stack and React while working on some projects, but to be honest, I've mostly just copied from tutorials without really understanding the material. After a three-month break, I feel like I've forgotten almost everything. I tried building a Next.js CRUD project and again relied heavily on a tutorial. After taking another short break, it feels like I'm back to square one. I'm unsure if I should revise my notes or start fresh. I haven't created any projects independently and I'm worried about my job readiness as I'm in my fourth year and have no internship experience. What plan should I follow to get back on track?
5 Answers
Learning to code is a lot like building muscle; you really need to practice consistently to get better. You’ve mentioned gaps in your learning—think of it as not getting enough reps in the gym. Try to write code regularly, even if it's just tiny snippets. Over time, you'll find that remembering and understanding concepts becomes second nature.
Imagine trying to learn a new language just by reading a complex book. It’s tough, right? Instead, focus on engaging material you enjoy. Find projects that excite you and learn by building something meaningful to you. You'll retain more information that way!
It's totally normal to copy from tutorials when you first start, but it’s crucial to transition into truly understanding the material. Instead of just watching videos or copying, dive into real projects where you actively code. Start small—build simple apps without looking at tutorials. This will help solidify your skills. Remember, the more you struggle and experiment, the more you learn!
Kicking off with React and Next.js can be challenging, especially if you haven't built your own projects before. Don't stress about how you feel now; rebuilding your foundation will take time. Focus on one or two simple projects, and don’t hesitate to revisit the basics when necessary. Also, think about your experiences over the last four years—what skills can you leverage to make your profile stronger?
I feel the same; I'm trying to figure out how to build my portfolio too!
Don't get discouraged about missing internships—there are always paths forward. Start building relationships in your field and consider other opportunities that might help you gain experience, like personal projects or smaller part-time roles. It's never too late to make connections and showcase your skills.
This is reassuring. I'll be sure to reach out and network more!
That's great advice! Doing small projects daily really helps internalize the concepts.