How to learn coding with no experience

Does the sight of a single line of code make you break out in a cold sweat, reminding you of the time you tried to assemble a LEGO set? 

Fear not, friends, we’ve got you covered!

The world of coding is where there are explosions in your mind when you finally get your code to run without errors. Grab your coffee (or tea, no judgment here), sit back, and let’s turn that fear of coding into a triumphant tale of digital mastery!

What is coding?#

Coding, often referred to as programming, is the process of creating instructions for computers to perform specific tasks. During coding, you write code in various programming languages. Amongst the many coding languages, the popular ones include Python, JavaScript, and C++. As the developer puts in the code, the computer translates it into a language that machines can understand. At its core, coding is about problem-solving and logical thinking, transforming abstract ideas into tangible solutions. It’s a skill that empowers individuals to build and innovate in the digital world, opening doors to endless possibilities and advancements in technology.

Why learn to code?#

As technology continues to evolve, coding knowledge has become increasingly relevant. This is why learning to code is a valuable skill, as it empowers individuals to create and innovate in ways previously unimaginable. Coding enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, providing a new perspective on tackling challenges. Moreover, coding also leads to various career opportunities across many industries, often resulting in high-demand and well-paying jobs. Not to mention, impressing friends with your ability to speak the language of robots has its perks. The real question isn’t why learn coding, but rather why not. 

Common myths about coding#

At some point in our lives, we all decided to just pick up our laptops and start coding away. But every once in a while, the moss of doubts starts creeping up on us, which has us stuck in our feet. So today, let’s debunk some of the myths about coding and embark on our coding journey with a clear head. The most common myths about coding are as follows:

• Coding is only for geniuses

• You need a CS degree to code

• Coding is just for young people

• You have to memorize all the code

Coding is only for geniuses#

Many people believe that coding requires extraordinary intelligence or mathematical genius. Truth is, we’re more like caffeine-fueled detectives piecing together a mystery with Google searches and stack overflow answers. In reality, coding is more about logical thinking, problem-solving, and persistence. You don’t need to be Einstein, just curious and a bit stubborn. With practice and the right resources, anyone can learn to code.

You need a CS degree to code#

While a computer science degree can be beneficial, it’s not a prerequisite for learning to code. It’s like thinking you need to be a master chef to make a decent sandwich. That's not true, but it helps if you can follow a recipe. Many successful programmers are self-taught or have learned coding through bootcamps, online courses, and other non-traditional education paths.

Coding is just for young people#

I have lost count of the number of people who have told me that they’re too old to code and are only in their late 20s (okay, I know this is borderline thirty, but it’s still pretty young). Gone are the days when you had to a fresh out of high school to be able to click away codes; now all you need is a space in your room, a working laptop, and a decent WiFi connection. Sure, kids might take to it quickly, but coding is for anyone curious and desiring to make a computer do their bidding. Age is just a number; curiosity is the real key.

You have to memorize all the code#

A common misconception is that programmers need to memorize extensive amounts of code. In practice, coding often involves understanding key concepts and knowing where to find resources. In reality, developers have bookmarks full of cheat sheets, use code libraries, and spend quality time with Google. Coding is about knowing where to find answers, not having a photographic memory.

A 5-step coding plan for beginners#

Entering the world of coding is similar to stepping into a maze without a map to navigate through the journey. For young coders, this can be overwhelming. So, we’ve prepared a plan that can provide a basic guideline on how not to get lost in this maze. The coding plan for beginners has 5 steps:

1. Choose the right programming language

2. Get coding tools and resources

3. Learn the coding fundamentals

4. Practice through projects

5. Join a coding community

Choose the right programming language#

There exists a whole library of programming languages. As with any first step, choosing the right programming language sets the foundation of a developer’s learning experience and can significantly impact their progress. Different languages serve different purposes, so beginner programmers need to understand their goals and interests before making a decision. For instance, Python is renowned for its simplicity and versatility, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Its easy-to-read syntax allows new coders to focus on learning programming concepts without getting bogged down by complex syntax rules. The key to choosing the right programming language is to align one’s choice with their personal interests and career goals.

Get coding tools and resources#

One essential step is ensuring you have the right coding tools and resources. A reliable code editor is crucial, and options like Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text are popular for their ease of use and extensive features. Similarly, websites like Stack Overflow provide a platform where you can ask questions and find answers to common coding problems. GitHub is another invaluable resource, offering repositories full of code examples, projects, and collaborative tools. Beginner programmers can explore open-source projects to see how experienced developers structure their code and even contribute to these projects to gain practical experience.

Learn the coding fundamentals#

The basic elements of all programming languages are the same. Each programming language is just like a language you speak or write; it has its own syntax, grammar, and vocabulary that you need to understand and use correctly. Just as with any language, practice, and full immersion are key to becoming proficient. Beginners should start with the basics, such as understanding variables, data types, and control structures, and then gradually move on to more complex concepts like object-oriented programming, algorithms, and data structures. 

Practice through projects#

There’s only so much theoretical knowledge that can take you. It’s not until you’ve put all your knowledge into practice that you can begin on the road to excellence. First, start with small projects that match your skill level. For example, a simple yet effective project is developing a basic calculator. This will introduce you to fundamental programming concepts like loops, conditionals, and functions. As you become more comfortable, you can try building a to-do list application. This project involves creating a user interface, managing data with arrays or databases, and implementing features like adding, editing, and deleting tasks.

Join a coding community#

Coding can feel like you’re stuck on a deserted island with only a spade for company. Instead, find your tribe! Beginner developers should aim toward joining online forums, local meetups, or social media groups. One of the well-known African proverbs goes like this:

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

So, with a coding community, the long haul can be turned into a fun activity with your friends.

How to stay motivated: 3 tips for learning to code#

Staying motivated while learning to code can be challenging, but here are three tips to help you stay on track:

• Set clear goals: Since coding is a long journey, one step at a time will take beginner developers a long way. Whether it’s building a specific project, getting a job in tech, or simply learning a new skill, having a clear goal can provide direction and motivation. 

• Practice regularly: Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your coding skills. Consistency is key. It’s important to set a regular practice schedule, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day. Regular practice helps reinforce what you’ve learned and keeps your skills sharp.

• Celebrate small wins: Coding is a long journey. It should not be surprising that you’ll get tired and maybe even want to quit. This is why it’s crucial to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Whether it’s understanding a difficult concept or even fixing a bug, beginner developers should acknowledge and celebrate their progress, as this can boost their confidence and motivate them to continue learning.

Final word#

Coding is the backbone of all software applications. Programmers use coding to create simple websites and even build complex artificial intelligence systems. With the right programming language and tools available at hand, the learning process becomes more manageable and enjoyable. You’ll be able to write, debug, and optimize your code more efficiently in no time.