Is Using AI for Code Optimization a Good Learning Strategy?

Using AI to check on code you've already written and understand ways to optimize it is actually pretty solid practice! People have always sought advice on code improvements, even before AI. If you're able to grasp the suggestions AI gives you, it's a useful learning tool. For instance, I follow a series where a programmer goes over C++ code reviews, and it's been super helpful.

I like to use AI to guide me on subjects I want to learn, walking me through specific tasks. For example, I might ask it how to add an AI chat widget or how to securely manage access tokens. Framing questions this way helps me learn effectively, so the AI is more like a tutor for specific tasks.

Speaking as someone focused on performance, optimization is quite situation-dependent. It's influenced by the specifics of the problem you're addressing, the solution, and the hardware. Sure, there are general optimization strategies, but you really need to apply them and measure their impact to know what helps. AI has limitations here since code is just part of the larger context.

Generating test values is definitely valuable. If you do use AI for that, make sure it explains its choices. It's crucial to come up with your own test cases, focusing on standard inputs and edge cases, like empty or sorted data. This helps develop your skills in identifying potential issues in your code.