Starting out to learn how to code can be very daunting, especially for a beginner who does not have prior experience in programming or computer science. The concept and jargon used in coding can be overwhelming at first, and it can take time to get used to them.
Is coding really hard to learn? This is a question that many people ask themselves when they are considering learning how to code. The answer to the above question is not straight-forward as it depends on the individual involved and some factors which I will outline in this article.
What is Coding?
Coding, also known as computer programming, is the process of designing, writing, testing, debugging, and maintaining the source code of computer software.
My Experience.
For me, my opinion on this Question (Is coding really hard to learn?) is a big NO. This answer is coming from me who likes challenges and coupled with my problem-solving ability. Academically, I’m a Chemical Engineer therefore facing problems and finding solutions to them didn’t start with me learning how to code. For someone who has a strong background in Engineering, you can relate to the challenges that we encounter each day.
What inspired my learning to code is simply because of my passion for technology and science. I started learning how to code on November 2022. At first, it was not easy since I didn’t have any prior background in Computer software. I went on Youtube for guidance, and most videos I watched suggested that beginners should start learning Python language. I downloaded Pdf (Beginning Programming with Python for Dummies) written by John Paul Mueller. I started studying the basics and practicing the codes, it wasn’t easy but within a few weeks of practice and study, I was able to master a lot of codes. I started following Expert developers on social media like Twitter and Facebook, and to my greatest surprise, I was able to understand other languages they use like JavaScript, TypeScript etc. I also found out that they engage in teaching others through youtube videos, tweets and blog posts, I remembered how I didn’t forget maths after teaching them to my coursemates while in high school, so I started blogging and it has been of great help to me. The best way to grow is to “surround yourself with people who are smarter than you” in any field you are interested in learning.
Recently, I started to build a website using Python and Streamlit. I wanted to create a form on the site but it didn’t appear in an orderly manner when I ran the code. I watched a youtube video, it occurred to me that I needed to use CSS for the styling. I started recently to learn HTML and CSS because of the above-mentioned, and to my greatest surprise, it’s very easy to under the syntax. Then it occurred to me that you only need to conquer the basics of any programming language. Finally, I was able to style my website form with CSS.
Before and After Applying CSS Style to my Website.
Factors that Influences Beginner’s view on How Hard Coding Could be.
Previous Experience:
This is one of the major factors that influence how beginner view coding. Someone with little or no exposure to computers, programming language and software development would naturally find it more challenging than someone with previous experience.
Type of Programming Language A Beginner Starts With:
The programming Language a beginner chooses to start with can greatly influence how they perceive coding. Some programming languages are easier to learn than others. Low-level programming languages like assembly and machine code are difficult to learn when compared to high-level languages like Python and JavaScript.
Support System:
The availability of a support system can also impact how beginners view the difficulty of coding. Having access to a tutor, mentor, or online community where they ask questions and receive guidance can help beginners overcome obstacles and build confidence in their coding abilities.
Personality Trait:
A person who possesses the ability to be consistent, patient, problem-solving ability, logical and creative can find the problems he/she encounters in coding very interesting and won’t be discouraged by them.
Personal Motivation:
Finally, personal motivation is a critical factor that influences how beginners view the difficulty of coding. Those who are highly motivated to learn to code may find it easier to overcome challenges and persist through difficult concepts.
Conclusion:
Coding can be challenging, but it is not impossible to learn. With time, practice, and perseverance, anyone can learn how to code. While coding may be difficult at first, it can be incredibly easy as you progress. So, if you are thinking of coding as being hard, don’t be discouraged by the initial challenges. Embrace the challenge as it gets better as you progress!
Feel free to share in the comment section your view on this topic.
Cheers!!!
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