Javascript beginners guide (non — code stuff)
7 years ago, I began my programming career. I was just a young boy with a spark. I wanted to be the best programmer and I could remember dreaming of writing even a programming language of my own. I started the journey and this is what I have learned and I can only wish someone has prepared me earlier. These are non-coding tips and I hope you find it useful.
1. The mastery of programming takes time and practice. When it comes to programming you can’t beat the routine of practice! Practise and years of experience are what evolve you into an awesome programmer. You can’t take online courses and become a good programmer. You’ve got to sit your butt and write real codes. Yes! you have to actually write those code out over and over again to master the core.
2. Programming is infinite, Bootstrap your mind, or don’t get started. One thing no one told me was the fact there’s always something new to learn. Programmers with over 20 years experience are still learning new stuff daily. There’s always some new buzz, and the industry as a whole is evolving at a rapid speed. If you don’t like to learn new things continually, Programming might not just be for you. I’m 7 years into my full-stack journey and I still feel like a beginner sometimes. :)
3. Build a network of mentors, programmers, and friends. Have someone who is ahead of you and you can always reach out too for help. This is so important and I can’t over-emphasize this point. Your network will keep you going on this tough journey
4. You can take a break. As a self-taught programmer, I had so many frustrating moments, I would want to achieve something, I couldn’t. Sometimes I have a deadline attached to me from my freelance client or my boss, and my code, wouldn’t just work because sometimes I’m too pressured. Simply ask for more time or a day off. You’ll thank yourself much later.
5. Watch out for out-dated tutorials! Javascript has evolved over time, from early Javascript, regarded most often as vanilla Javascript to more modern ES5, ES6, ES7, and ES8. Things are changing really fast. As a beginner, you’ve got to be careful with Libraries or Framework which are depreciated. Those can make or break your code.
6. Learn the core. Frameworks can be amazing, e.g React, Vue, Ember, and the likes. But as beginner always, learn the core before jumping to a framework or library. Frameworks will change from time to time, but the core fundamental almost remain the same across board
7. Keep a journal and always remember to have fun. Programming is infinite, you can’t afford for it to be boring :)
Thank you and go be an awesome programmer.
