Have you been wishing to be a programmer for a long time but don't know how or where to start? Then this post is definitely for you. I started my programming journey few weeks ago and I can say it's one of the best decisions I have ever made. I've wanted to learn programming for a long time now and fortunately I was able to get a good direction from a friend which I will be sharing with us below.
In order to start your learning journey you need to decide if you want to be self taught or you want to employ a physical trainer. Personally I wanted a physical trainer and I started with a friend of mine. Unfortunately he had a very tight schedule and the way he teaches is from the advance level. It was quite challenging understanding and so I had to go for another option. But firstly there are some things that are needed and I will be discussing them below.
Get a PC and buy a course on Udemy.
Before you start, the first thing you need to have a PC. You can't code without having a system. I tried downloading some coding app on my tab but it wasn't reliable at all. If you are serious about learning, you will definitely need a Pc. Once your PC is on ground, you need to find a platform to learn. In my case, I tried sites and YouTube but it was a lost cause. Finally a friend introduced me to Udemy.com (You can also download the app on either Playstore or Appstore). On this app, you can purchase any course of your desire. The options are limitless. You can just search for any course you are interested in and you will be shown with lots of options as seen below.
You should note that you can’t just buy any course, you need to start from the scratch and the first two languages you need to learn is HTML and CSS. They are the base line and so you need to buy courses that teaches these two first. The one I bought and I’m taking now is the first on the picture above which is “Build Responsive Real-World Websites with HTML and CSS“. I will advises you buy this course first and take the classes diligently.
In terms of the course's price, some of these courses might be a bit expensive for you but it’s worth it. Now there is a catch to it. Every now and then, there is promo whereby these prices are being slashed down. Presently now as I took that picture below, there is a promo ongoing which will last for the next three days. You can see below each course the new prices and old prices. Those promo times are the best time to buy those courses. Even if you are not ready to take them now, you can buy them and keep. That is one big advantages about Udemy that I love so much. Aside that, there is usually a certificate being offered at the end of the courses which gives you the advantage to apply for jobs and even be self employed.
Get a note and jot down as you take each classes.
Another important thing to note once you start taking these courses is that you need to treat them like you’re taking a physical class in a school. You need a pen and a notebook. The trainers on those courses are professionals who have had years of experiences in their respective fields. Therefore they will teach you in a very detailed manner and so it's important to jot down and practise as you go on. In the picture below, I made sure I make a comprehensive note after taking my jottings during the class. I make my note in such a way that even if I forget a thing, I can easily cross check and I will quickly remember. Infact if someone else read my note, they will be able to understand pretty well. Making this note has really helped me greatly and I’m so thankful for it.
Take part in every exercise and assignments.
Another thing that will help you improve quickly is to take part in every excersice and practice as you proceed in those courses. Its not a video that you will just watch and belive you're going to understand. It involves lots of practice. You should know Programming is a language and so the more you write it, the better you get at it. Take part in all the assignments and do them as best as you could.
Once you adherw to all stated above, you are good to go. All left is a positive attitude, determination and commitment.