Being a good developer isn't an easy task. You have to maintain some good habits to reach the next level yourself. But as developers, we have both good and bad habits. This article, therefore, aims to provide valuable tips for new developers on maximizing productivity and learning new things. Without further ado, let's get started.
ALWAYS Remember to comment your code
I know you have heard this advice from all your seniors or colleagues but it is an important one. The purpose of commenting your own code is not just to make it more understandable to yourself or another developer. Furthermore, it helps you think about your function before you write it. It helps you to define what you are trying to accomplish.
Automate Repetitive Tasks
Automation is another excellent productivity hack. In addition to saving you hours of coding time, automating time-consuming and monotonous tasks simplifies your job in a way that enhances productivity.
Refactoring Your Code
Counting on others will not help you progress and gain self-confidence. Therefore, it's crucial to go back to the dirty code and clean it up. Cleaning up dirty code is just as important as adding a new feature, in my opinion. So, the next time your boss asks what you did during those five hours of non-billable work, you can reply: "I refactored my code."
Use the Right Platforms and Tools
Developers can speed up their work and maximize productivity and efficiency using different tools and platforms. You can prefer tools that help you avoid distractions like Project Management tools, Time Tracking, Team Collaboration, Automation, etc. Some examples include:
- Automation: Selenium, Cypress, Katalon Studio, Serenity
- Bug Tracking Tools: BackLog and MantisBT
- Code Management Tools: GitHub, Bitbucket, GitLab
- Project Management Tools: Asana, JIRA, Wrike
- Team Collaboration Tools: Microsoft Teams, Slack, Trello
- Time Tracking Tools: Hubstaff or Jibble
Minimize Distractions
Don't waste your time browsing social media or checking the news. Make sure to turn off all your desktop and mobile notifications while you're working. Otherwise, it will hinder your productivity. If you want to limit your time spent on a certain website, you can use an app or extension or block certain sites.
Also, try to minimize the tabs or windows open in your browser. There is rarely a need to open more than five browser tabs or five code windows simultaneously in 90% of cases. When you have multiple windows and tabs open, you'll have more distractions and more chances of making mistakes.
Set a Time-Limit and Stick to it
Working on a task can easily lead to getting sidetracked. Setting a timer will help you stay on track. As a result, you will stay on track and complete the assignment in time. Software developers are notorious for over-optimizing their code prematurely. They spend unnecessary time and effort on it.
The timer will keep you on track when you have a number of assignments to complete. It will remind you to complete each task within the time frame. Being mindful of not getting distracted will make you more focused.
Work Fewer Hours and Take Breaks
It may seem counter-intuitive, but working fewer hours could increase your productivity. You devote your entire attention to the specific tasks you must complete when you have less time to do so. As a result, you devote less time to distractions and achieve more in less time.
Take a short break every hour to move around. Even a quick walk around the house or a few stretches can make a big difference. You don't have to include a complete fitness routine in your working day, but if you do, you'll notice a big difference. Reset your mind while you're away from the keyboard - this will keep your brain stimulated. If you take breaks like this frequently, your brain will stay cool.
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