So you want to learn how to code?
If like me, you've tried multiple time to learn how to code unsuccessfully, then spending the time to read the words on this page and taking them to heart would be a good idea.
I first tried to learn how to code in the beginning of 2017 with CodeSchool.com, I followed the tutorials, completed some class, got the basic HTML/CSS certification and tried my hands on the Javascript only to not follow through with it.
The Problem With Places Like CodeSchool, CodeAcademy and Others
Don't get me wrong, these services are great and very well built. The problem is that there might be a little too much handholding. If you are like me, you can complete a module without really being sure of what you've just learned because you have no context in which to put what you've learned.
What's great about freecodecamp.org is that the curriculum is built in very logical steps, IT'S FREE and in order to complete your certification, you must code projects that will require you to put together everything you've learned.
5 Practical Tips to Learn How to Code From Quincy Larson Founder of FreeCodeCamp
1. CODE EVERYDAY
That's a biggy and it seems obvious. This is however why I believe most people never actually learn to code. Learning how to code is like learning how to speak a new language. Every day that you do not code, you lose some of the grammar and syntax that you've learned previously.
It's better to do 30min every day than a 4hours twice a week.
2. HANGOUT WITH CODERS
Motivation and friendship will keep you in the game long enough to feel competent. You can join a meetup group in your local city and start talking about some of the stuff that you are learning.
3. TOOLS DONT MATTER
The easiest way to procrastinate is to get obsessed with tools. Coding, even if it's with the basic Window notepad, is better than spending hours comparing the benefits of Atom Vs Sublime Text.
4. LEARN HOW TO BUILD, DONT WORRY ABOUT WHAT TO BUILD
Just build stuff! Start small and build on top of them. Need a list of ideas? Here it is
5. CONTRIBUTE TO OPEN SOURCE
This is self-evident. When people get recruited for a job, one of the first things interviewers look at is your GitHub repo. Having a busy github and people liking what you contribute is a great way to showcase your passion and skills.
Conclusion
I've been on a 3 week streak today where I've coded every single day...this is not enough to make me a coder but the knowledge does compound overtime. Hopefully, by the end of the year, I should be solid enough to do very basic stuff using the steem blockchain.
What have you been up to? Are you getting ready to start coding?