Hey everyone! I recently graduated with a degree in computer engineering and I'm moving on to my master's. I've done a fair bit of programming during my studies in languages like C++, Python, and Java. But now I'm stuck. I'm trying to find coding projects that are challenging but manageable. When I come up with an idea for a program or app, I often feel overwhelmed and unsure if I'm biting off more than I can chew. On the flip side, working on basic exercises and simple functions just doesn't give me that same thrill or sense of achievement. So my main question is: is feeling like you're drowning in larger projects a normal part of learning, or should I be focused on simpler exercises until I feel more confident?
4 Answers
What specifically makes you feel overwhelmed? I'm curious because I've been there too but I'm struggling to understand your situation.
It takes time to figure out what you need to learn and it’s normal to dive into projects that turn out to be more complex than you first thought. My advice is to keep challenging yourself, but also step back sometimes to analyze how you're solving problems. That's where the deeper learning happens! Consider reflecting on whether your solution is the best one after you've made it work. How many different ways can you tackle a task?
I get the concept, but I find that approach frustrating! I feel like I need to be actively creating something rather than just pondering over how to optimize it.
Yes, it's totally normal to feel this way! Just remember that your degree might give you the basics, but most of what you'll learn happens through real-world experience. My first job was filled with moments where I felt lost. The key is to push your comfort zone but also to recognize where you need to build more skills. Think about what types of projects you’d enjoy doing—it'll make the process less daunting!
I’ve started some projects like a pomodoro timer in Python and a Markdown-capable Notepad clone in C++. It feels rewarding but also adds to the pressure when I try to turn them into full-fledged apps.
It's definitely a good idea to seek projects that are appropriate for your skill level. If it's too easy, you won't learn much, but if it's too hard, it could just be frustrating. You might want to check out some resources like Simple Programming Problems to get the ball rolling. They can offer manageable challenges that will help you grow without feeling overwhelmed. Also, consider using AI tools to help brainstorm ideas that fit your current abilities!
I'd say it's that daunting feeling when my project expands beyond a simple snippet into something that interacts with other services, especially when I dip my toes into full stack development. It's a lot to grasp and I often find myself googling more than coding!