I want to be a programmer

I present a road map for those who want to become a programmer.

“Everyone should learn programming because it teaches you how to think.” - Steve Jobs

Today, one of the most prestigious and most profitable professions, perhaps the first, is programming. Aware of this fact, many people become enthusiastic and want to become programmers. Of course, the desire to start any business is a good motivator, but it is not enough to succeed and be successful.

We will approach the issue more conceptually and give valuable recommendations to those who want to become programmers.

What and why?

The first task of those who dream of becoming a programmer should be to find answers to these two questions: what and why? What is programming and why do I want to become a programmer? It goes without saying that every person should understand the essence of the specialty he will choose. What is programming, what is its uniqueness, what are its difficulties? To find answers to these questions, you should first do your own research and then meet with professional programmers. Only then can you ask yourself the question "why do I want to become a programmer?" At this time, you must be completely honest with your conscience. If your answer is to make a lot of money, you'd better choose to become a trader. Because programming is a way of life, a different world. Without falling in love with him, you will not be a traveler of this road. If your answer is "programming fits my way of thinking and life, I see myself in it", then this is another matter. So, you were born to be a programmer...

The right path and healthy path

What do you need to do to become a programmer? What is the long and short goal? Where and how to start? Which programming language to learn, which books to read, which courses to attend? In the next step, you should find answers to these questions.
Once you decide to become a programmer, you will see several paths. You must choose the right path. There are many ways to achieve the goal, but it varies from person to person. Only you can decide which way is right for you. To do this, determine in which field you will be engaged in programming. The areas are diverse: application, system, mobile, web, gaming, etc. The field you choose will determine your path, which in turn will clarify what your long-range goal is.
Once you've found the right path, you need to find a healthy path that takes you there. In other words, you need to define immediate goals. The immediate goals are to have an understanding of algorithms and the basics of programming. For this, it is recommended to start with the easiest programming language. It could be Python.

Book selection

Book selection is very important. You should choose a book that does not leave you halfway. You should definitely use books intended for self-learners and beginners. The language of your first programming book should be very simple and also fun.

Should I learn by myself or go to a course?

Although it is not easy, it is possible for you to learn by yourself. This requires will, discipline and patience. Of course, by taking a course, you can learn what you learn on your own in less time. If you can't attend the course, don't worry. There are also very good online courses available and free.

Experience, experience, experience

To learn programming well, you need to know the theory, fundamentals and concept of this work very well. It takes a lot of practice to get good at programming. Just like playing the piano well, you have to play the piano a lot. Also, to write a good program, you need to write a lot of programs. Long story short, you need to constantly improve your algorithm design skills and develop your programming logic. To do this, solve problems of different degrees of difficulty, look for different and optimal solutions, and do not hesitate to conduct experiments. Additionally, participate in various programming competitions. All this will increase both your experience and your confidence.

Additional resources

Program on the one hand, keep learning on the other. Subscribe to forums, follow blogs, watch video tutorials. In short, always research and always use additional resources. In this way, you will enrich your knowledge even more.

Have a mentor

Have at least one professional programmer you know (real or virtual). A programmer you can comfortably ask questions, get advice, and guide you. But don't bother him with your primitive questions. Do your research first, and if you can't find the answer to your question, research it again. If your search fails, try again. Ask your murshid only after 3rd failed attempt.

Share what you know

Knowledge increases as it is shared. Remember this golden rule. Share what you know with the travelers of this road. Believe me, it will benefit you too. Your knowledge will be updated and kept alive.

Take the pulse of the day

Follow everything related to programming, be aware of changes and updates. Don't forget that programming languages ​​are developing day by day and getting richer.

Projects

After acquiring theoretical knowledge and some practical skills, you can start projects. Initially, it is recommended that you start with small projects. Remember, it's not about the smallness or size of the project. The main thing is not to stop the work you started. Even the smallest project can be developed and turned into a serious software product. The main issue here is the process itself. Understanding the problems you face during the project, finding their solutions, choosing the optimal one from these solutions, step-by-step drawing of the project in front of you, its improvement... All this will give you indescribable excitement and pleasure.

Startups

Once you have a few independent projects, you can also join startup teams. This will give you experience, team spirit, and if you're lucky, money.

Practice programs

After reaching a certain level, definitely join the paid or free internship programs announced by the companies. This can be a very successful start for your future career. At this time, you will gain real experience and proudly add a reference to your CV. If you're lucky, the company you're interning with may even offer you a real job.

Certificates

Knowledge and skills are essential, certification is not so important. This idea is mostly true. But after acquiring knowledge and skills, obtaining certificates can be a real indicator of your professionalism. The impact of these certificates on business applications for companies, as well as on contract terms, is huge. On the other hand, you will have systematized your knowledge while preparing for the certification exams.

Get a job

Programming is a professional activity. This path you set out with the desire to become a programmer should have an apartment, a logical result. This, of course, is to get a job. To build a successful career, you must follow the advice we have given so far to the letter. Only then will your self-confidence be strong in job interviews. Evaluate your opportunities and be pragmatic about job offers. Good luck to you!

"I want to be a programmer" book p. 14–18 (Karim Tahiroglu)

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