I learned to code from scratch in 1 year. Here's how.

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to learn coding from scratch in just one year, based on personal experiences shared by a self-taught programmer. It covers the journey of selecting a programming language, effective learning resources, and tools, as well as unique strategies that can accelerate your learning process. Whether you aim to build applications or pursue a job in programming, this guide is designed to help you navigate your coding journey successfully.

Chapter 1: How I Chose My Language

Choosing the right programming language is critical to your coding journey. Here are the key points to consider:

• Start with JavaScript: The video presenter began with JavaScript, focusing on backend programming. This choice was motivated by a desire to build a personal project involving voice note transcription.

• Understand Backend vs. Frontend:

  • Backend Programming: Involves server-side logic and database interactions (like building a car engine).
  • Frontend Programming: Involves user interface and design elements (like designing the car body).

• Pick a Language Based on Personal Interest: Choose a language that aligns with a project you want to create. This increases engagement and retention of the material. Programming languages are tools to achieve your goals.

• Consider Market Demand: While personal interest is crucial, also consider the language's popularity and job market competitiveness.

Chapter 2: Learning Resources

Utilizing effective learning resources is essential for mastering JavaScript. Here are the recommended resources:

1. FreeCodeCamp:

   • JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures Course: A free course with mini-lessons that encourage hands-on coding immediately.
   • Tip: Create a test folder in your editor to remix lessons and extend challenges beyond the tutorial.

2. Modern JavaScript Tutorial:

   • Found at JavaScript.info, this resource provides in-depth explanations that complement the exercises in FreeCodeCamp.

3. MDN Web Docs:

   • The go-to documentation for JavaScript, offering comprehensive guides and examples for functions and language features.

4. YouTube Content:

   • Explore channels like Fireship for fun and engaging JavaScript videos.

5. Learning by Osmosis: Immerse yourself in coding content during downtime to enhance learning through passive exposure.

Chapter 3: Secret Weapon #1

ChatGPT can serve as a powerful learning tool in your coding journey:

• Personalized Learning: Use ChatGPT to tailor explanations and examples to your understanding level. It can clarify concepts you find challenging.

• Identifying Unknowns: Prompt ChatGPT to identify areas in your knowledge that you might not even realize you lack.

• Example Prompt:

  // Example function
  function fetchData() {
      // Fetching data from an API
  }
  

  Ask ChatGPT how a senior developer might improve this function and why those improvements matter.

Chapter 4: Secret Weapon #2

Pipe Dream is highlighted as a valuable tool for building and deploying workflows quickly:

• No-Code Automation: Pipe Dream allows you to connect different tools without extensive backend setup, enhancing productivity.

• Example Workflow: Automate the process of transcribing audio files and sending them to Notion using available components and custom code snippets.

• Code Example (using Node.js):

  const natural = require('natural');
  // Code to split transcript into paragraphs
  

Chapter 5: Best Learning Hacks

Implement these hacks to accelerate your programming learning:

1. Write Code Frequently: Prioritize hands-on coding over passive learning. Use tools like Pipe Dream or Replit to reduce friction when starting projects.

2. Set Up a Testing Folder: Create a separate space to test functions in isolation. This speeds up your debugging process and improves learning.

3. Create a Code Snippet Database: Maintain a collection of commonly used code snippets to enhance efficiency and reduce time spent recalling syntax.

Chapter 6: Favorite Coding Tools

Using the right tools can significantly streamline your workflow:

• Visual Studio Code (VS Code): A powerful code editor with extensions like Code Runner, Live Preview, and Quokka to enhance coding efficiency.

• DevUtils: A macOS app with various programming utilities, including JSON validators and regex testers.

• GitHub: Essential for version control, enabling collaborative coding and tracking changes in your projects.

Conclusion

Learning to code from scratch is an achievable goal with the right resources, tools, and strategies. Start by selecting a programming language that inspires you and utilize the recommended learning resources. Embrace tools like ChatGPT and Pipe Dream to enhance your understanding and productivity. Finally, consistently practice coding, and leverage effective tools to streamline your learning journey. Happy coding!