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Effective Coding Learning Strategies
Aug 5, 2024
How to Learn Coding Effectively
Background
Speaker works at Microsoft and has done six internships across three countries.
Started coding in grade 11 with Scratch (basic game development for children).
Attended Waterloo, learned various languages: Racket, C, C++, HTML, CSS, TCL, Python, Java, JavaScript, and C Sharp.
Languages and Their Purposes
Racket:
Recursion
C:
Memory management
C++:
Object-oriented design
HTML/CSS:
Web development (markup languages)
TCL:
Internship experience, deemed useless
Python:
Side projects
Java/JavaScript:
Backend and frontend web development
C Sharp:
Full-time job, similar to Java
Key Learnings
C and C++:
Very useful, considered ancestors of many modern languages.
Learning these can be intensive and demotivating if starting out.
Machine Learning:
Advanced and involves complex math, not ideal for beginners.
Coding vs Programming:
Coding:
Writing code to solve computer science problems (math problems).
Programming:
Using coding to make programs that solve real problems.
Recommended Starting Point
Start with a language that is easy yet practical.
Python:
Easy to read, good for learning basics (variables, functions, data structures, control flow, classes).
JavaScript:
Another good option, especially because it can be used for both backend and frontend development.
Steps to Learn
Learn Basics:
Focus on basics like variables, functions, control flow, and data structures.
Build a Simple Website:
Includes backend, frontend, and database aspects.
Backend:
Use high-level languages like Python (Django, Flask) or JavaScript (ExpressJS).
Frontend:
Use JavaScript, HTML, CSS (React for JavaScript).
Database:
Use MongoDB.
Create Useful Projects:
Build something useful yet simple, e.g., a currency converter or Spotify to YouTube MP3 converter.
Follow Tutorials:
Use tutorials but create a unique project to avoid copying code.
Advanced Learning
C and C++:
Learn after mastering basics; prepares you for long-term and other languages.
Important Concepts:
Understanding HTTP methods, interacting with databases, and using frameworks.
Psychological Aspects
Be aware of the Dunning-Kruger effect (overconfidence followed by awareness of limitations).
Experience hackathons to learn and build projects quickly; they can be fun and educational.
Final Advice
Balance between coding and programming.
Build practical projects to keep motivation high.
Engage with the community and participate in events like hackathons.
Continually practice and expand your skill set.
📄
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