Have you ever found yourself starting to learn programming or another skill, only to become stuck without knowing how to progress your level?
The only way to improve any skill, like programming, is by practicing. Let me teach you 4 methods I used to elevate my skills as a programmer.
1. Solve problems to develop your programming logic
A solid way to improve as a programmer is to tackle programming challenges. Platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode offer a plethora of problems that will help you develop your ability to solve problems in your own code more efficiently. You have everything from super basic problems to learn programming, to complex problems that require a deep knowledge of programming.
Leetcode Problems Screen
2. Set goals to drive your growth
Motivation is key to keep learning and practicing. The simplest way to stay motivated is to see progress, and that can be achieved by setting goals for yourself.
Set yourself projects that are slightly beyond your current level, challenging you to step out of your comfort zone, and then set your goals based on them. By having clear goals, you'll stay focused and motivated to overcome obstacles and acquire new skills along the way.
3. Create public projects to learn from the community
Creating and contributing to public projects is an excellent way to improve your skills as a programmer. Whether it's developing an open-source library or participating in collaborative projects on platforms like GitHub, you expose your code to review and critique from other programmers. This feedback will help you identify areas for improvement and learn more effective coding practices.
Another advantage is that you'll get to know better the ecosystem of programmers surrounding your favorite field within programming.
GitHub Home Page
4. Research advanced topics
Exploring advanced topics is an effective strategy to elevate your expertise in programming. Identify uncommon or difficult areas that intrigue you and delve into their study. Whether it's learning about advanced algorithms, code optimization techniques, or programming paradigms, dedicating time to researching these topics will provide you with a deeper understanding and make you a more versatile programmer.
Conclusion
Developing your skills as a programmer requires practice and consistency, period. Find the perfect way to keep yourself motivated because the only way to master any skill is discipline. If you dedicate some time every day, you'll see how gradually you become more expert. And remember, taking breaks is also important, this is not a marathon!