Are you stuck in a cycle of coding tutorials, only to find yourself unable to produce real software when it counts? If so, you're not alone. In this guide, we'll explore a systematic approach to escape what many refer to as "Tutorial Hell." Join me on this journey as we lay out a two-part program designed to transform your coding learning experience.
1. Understanding Tutorial Hell:
Tutorial hell is a common struggle for beginners who, despite completing numerous coding tutorials, find themselves unable to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios. It's that frustrating moment when you finish a lengthy tutorial only to open your code editor and feel completely stuck.
2. Prerequisites for Success:
Before diving into the program, there are three essential prerequisites:
Mastery of fundamental programming concepts (variables, loops, conditionals, functions).
Selection of a specific software development stack (front-end, mobile, or back-end).
Commitment to abstain from additional tutorials during the program's duration.
3. Embracing Question Driven Development (QDD):
Enter Question Driven Development (QDD), a framework inspired by real-life software development. QDD involves breaking down your end goal into a series of small questions and navigating your way to success using online resources.
4. Small Projects, Big Impact:
The program encourages working on small projects with less than 100 lines of unique code. Examples include creating a temperature converter, checking for palindromes, and tackling math puzzles. These projects serve as building blocks for your coding skills.
5. Scaling Up and Avoiding Procrastination:
Once you've conquered a minimum of 50 small projects, it's time to scale up. The guide suggests cloning 10 unique websites. Why clone? Cloning eliminates the need to focus on design, style, or functionality, allowing you to concentrate on honing your coding skills. Decomposition becomes crucial here—breaking down each project into smaller, manageable questions to facilitate problem-solving.
Conclusion: Building a Healthy Relationship with Tutorials:
While you've successfully escaped tutorial hell, it's essential to acknowledge that tutorials are valuable resources. The guide recommends a balanced approach: learn through tutorials and immediately apply the knowledge by completing three small projects related to the tutorial content.
Thank you for taking the time to invest in your coding journey! If you found this guide helpful, leave your questions below. We invite you to join our thriving community of learners, where you can share your experiences, seek advice, and collaborate with fellow coding enthusiasts. Remember, your journey is unique, but you're not alone. Happy coding, and welcome to our community!
Top comments (5)
Yes, it's very important to do small projects first. This is were I have fallen short in the past and it slows down learning. Breakdown the things you've learned during the tutorial into small projects, that you can then try on your own
Great tips! thanks for sharing
Great tips @mscmsit! :) As far as using the third tip, what questions do you recommend that people ask? Also, another tip that can help is contributing to open source projects! :) You get to apply your coding knowledge(and other skills) into real-world coding situations.
For example if i am making a website i should think how this effect is created on this website or what new techstack it is.
Nice TIps, i never think about a QDD approach before, going to start use