Becoming a programmer involves learning, practising, and working on projects. Here’s a structured approach to help you get started:
Phase 1 – Stand
- Pick a beginner-friendly language like Python or Javascript. I recommend Python for its readability and versatility.
- Consider your goals. If you are interested in web development, start with Python or Javascript. For mobile app development, start with Swift (iOS), Kotlin (Android) or Dart (Flutter).
- Learn the core concepts – variables, data types, conditionals, loops, functions, and error handling.
Phase 2 – Walk
- Create small programs or scripts, like a calculator, a to-do list app, or a simple website.
- As you get comfortable, level up and work on more challenging projects requiring different skills.
Phase 3 – Run
- Learn advanced data structures like linked lists, stacks, queues, trees and algorithms like sorting and searching.
- Learn Git to version control your code and collaborate with others.
- Understand design patterns.
- Find a mentor and get feedback on writing clean, efficient and maintainable code.
- Set up a routine for daily or weekly coding sessions and build consistency.
Phase 4 – Signal
- Showcase your projects on your personal portfolio website and GitHub.
- Contribute to open-source projects.
- Blog about your learning journey early on. Follow the #LearnInPublic approach to attract potential recruiters.
- Engage with online communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit, and Discord programming groups.
Becoming a programmer is an exciting journey that requires patience, practice, and a passion for problem-solving.
As you progress, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to find a mentor or senior co-developer who can provide guidance and feedback. An experienced mentor can accelerate your growth by helping you understand best practices, avoid common pitfalls, and gain insights that only come with experience.
Consistently building your skills, working on projects, and engaging with the coding community will set you on the right path.
For a platform that supports learning and connects you with experienced developers, consider exploring the resources and courses at CoDevs.in. With content designed to cater to all skill levels and opportunities for real-world feedback, CoDevs can be a valuable companion on your programming journey.
