Hey everyone, I've been diving into programming thanks to teachyourselfCS and some Reddit discussions, and I've realized that my main focus isn't just on algorithms or program design, but more about gaining domain knowledge to really apply what I learn. I believe that understanding the context—like how JK Rowling masterfully uses English to craft her stories—can really enhance the way we use programming, similar to how Larry Page became an expert in search technology because of his domain expertise. I'm curious about your experiences: how much did you really know when you started building your own domain knowledge? How did you shift from simply learning programming to actually solving real-world problems? As an example, if I wanted to build an AI trading platform or even an operating system, where should I start? I've mostly just done micro-projects on Replit and asked GPT for help, but I feel stuck on how to develop deeper knowledge in the areas I'm interested in. Thanks for your insights!
2 Answers
From my experience, the switch to focusing on domain knowledge happened gradually. I started by prioritizing personal projects over just practicing coding, which made programming feel more natural. Once I grasped some software engineering concepts, I started to see coding as a tool for storytelling, like using English creatively. Each domain has its own learning curve; for banking, focus on security and regulations, while game development allows for more creativity with no strict standards. Finding online communities can really help too—ask seasoned software engineers for insights on your learning journey.
If you're thinking about building an AI trading platform, be cautious; those concepts can often sound far-fetched or misleading. It’s crucial to ground yourself in reality and seek out legitimate resources instead of quick schemes for easy money. Understanding the basics of how coding and AI work will help clear up a lot of confusion. Basically, when you encounter a "why do I need to know this?" moment, just remember it might help you avoid being scammed. Knowledge protects you!
Exactly! Life is full of situations where your knowledge, whether it’s about coding or other topics, helps you recognize potential traps. It's amazing how much you can dodge just by being informed.