What's a good way to start learning Go for backend development?

Start with programming basics in Go rather than worrying about backend tools on day one. Learn variables, conditionals, loops, functions and basic data structures, then practice by writing small programs without following a tutorial line by line.

After that, try a small backend project. Keep the first version simple, then add features as you learn. Looking things up along the way is normal. The goal is to get comfortable turning a problem into working code, even if your first attempt is messy.

Go is fine to start with. Another option is to learn the basics in Python first, then move to Go. Python can be approachable, but switching languages is extra work, so there is no need to do that if Go keeps you interested.

Whichever you pick, stick with it long enough to make something rather than hunting for the perfect beginner course.

Learn some Git once you're writing code, then look at Docker or Podman later. Those are useful tools to explore, but they won't replace understanding the code itself. Build a project alongside learning them instead of waiting until you feel completely ready.

Don't make up experience for a job application. Build a few things you can explain and put them in a portfolio instead. Check local job listings too, since the number of Go roles can vary by location.

You don't have to study forever before applying, but you do need enough programming ability to work on tasks and discuss what you've built. Keep learning while you look.