Learning to code is an invaluable skill that can open up many career opportunities. Here are some tips on how to go about learning to code effectively in 2021.
Choose What to Learn
First, determine what exactly you want to learn. Here are some of the most popular and in-demand programming languages:
- JavaScript – For front-end web development
- Python – For AI, machine learning, data science, backend web dev
- Java – Popular general purpose language for software engineering
- C/C++ – For game development, desktop apps, embedded systems
- C# – For cross-platform app development
- Ruby/Rails – For web development
Pick a language that aligns with your goals and interests.
Start With Interactive Courses
Once you’ve decided on a language, begin your coding journey using interactive online courses and tutorials. Some excellent beginner-friendly options:
- FreeCodeCamp – Free full web dev curriculum
- CodeAcademy – Hands-on coding lessons
- Scrimba – Interactive coding screencasts
- Udacity – Project-based courses created by industry experts
Follow along, code alongside the instructor, and retain knowledge through active recall.
Supplement With Text/Video Courses
After getting the basics down through interactive lessons, build on your skills with text and video-based courses.
- edX – Free online courses from Harvard, MIT etc.
- Coursera – Online courses and specializations
- Udemy – Low cost courses on thousands of topics
- FreeCodeCamp – Advanced full-stack developer course
- The Odin Project – Open source full web dev curriculum
Take structured courses that focus on specific skills like backend programming, UI design etc.
Practice Through Projects
Once you gain a basic grasp over programming concepts, apply your knowledge through practical real-world projects.
- Clone or code social network, e-commerce or blog sites
- Build tools and apps that automate daily tasks
- Work through project tutorial challenges
- Contribute to open source projects on GitHub
- Complete assignments and labs from courses
- Follow along YouTube coding challenge videos
Programming is a skill that requires continuous practice through projects.
Get Feedback and Improve
Throughout your learning journey, collect feedback from more experienced programmers to strengthen your skills.
- Post questions on Stack Overflow when stuck
- Share your projects and code on GitHub and Reddit for reviews
- Participate in local Meetup groups and online forums
- Do mock interviews to practice explaining your code
- Sign up for a coding bootcamp for mentorship
Programming requires lifelong learning. Embrace feedback to constantly get better.
Learning to code takes time and dedication, but pays off exponentially in terms of career prospects and personal growth. Follow this roadmap of interactive lessons, structured courses, consistent project-building, and feedback cycles to develop job-ready programming skills in 2021.
