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Jimmy McBride
Jimmy McBride

Posted on • Originally published at jimmymcbride.dev

The Undisputed BEST Way To Learn How To Code

Hey, future techies! 🌟 With so many opinions buzzing around the tech realm, you might be thinking, "Which path do I take? What language do I start with?" 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♀️ Well, fret not, because this guide is here to help you navigate through the modern labyrinth of choices, and find your best path. Let's dive in!

1. Fun is Your Best Teacher! 🚀🎈

Starting out, prioritize FUN over everything else. Algorithms and heavy CS theory can wait (unless you're into that sort of thing from the get-go). Feel like creating a game? Dive into game development platforms like Godot or Unity. And don't worry about creating everything from scratch - utilize free resources for artwork and assets to help focus on coding.

Remember, it's okay to hop around in the beginning – try out different languages, dabble in various projects, and explore! 🌍 The sole aim is to enjoy the process. Why, you ask? Because passion is what will fuel you through the inevitable challenges. If coding becomes a fun-filled game for you, even the toughest problems will seem manageable. Personally, I'm a huge fan of Dark Souls, and games that are generally filled with very difficult challenges. Embrace that gamer's mindset! 🎮

2. Narrow Down Your Interests 🧭

By now, you've hopefully identified what tickles your coding fancy. Be it game development, web design, data science, or anything in between – this is where you begin to align your goals with your interests. Now comes the million-dollar question: What do you see yourself doing?

  • Hobbyist: 🎨 Dive deep into personal projects. It's all about passion over profit!

  • Cutting Edge Start-Up Developer: 🔥 Aim for the stars, but remember, it's hard mode. Stay updated with the latest tech trends in your domain.

  • Steady Rock-Solid Job: 🏢 Want stability? Research the dominant tech in your area and immerse yourself in it. Going for what's established can sometimes be your ticket in, especially when everyone else is chasing the latest fad.

3. Picking the Right Language for the Job 📚

If you're looking for stability, check the tech demands in your vicinity. Are local firms scouting for .Net professionals, or is there a high demand for Java developers? Knowing this can set you on a faster track to employment. For instance, aspiring front-end developers might find more openings requiring React knowledge than Svelte. But here's the silver lining: you can always pick up and explore the latter once you're settled in your job. And by then, who knows, it might have evolved to be even more awesome! 🌱

Final Recommendations 🌟:

  • Game Development: Learn C# for Unity, GDScript for Godot.

  • Web Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript are basics. Dive into frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue depending on your interest and regional demand.

  • Data Science: Python is a great start. Add libraries like Pandas and TensorFlow as you progress.

  • Mobile Development: Kotlin for Android, Swift for iOS.

  • Network and Systems: Get comfy with Linux and shell scripting!

The tech world is vast and filled with opportunities. Your journey is unique to you. So, absorb advice, but carve your own path. Remember, the right choice is the one that aligns with your passion and goals. Happy coding! 🚀

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