How to Become a Professional Programmer (From Scratch, no Degree)
A lot of people are trying to be programmers. Some like it because it’s “cool and trendy,” others because it pays well, and a small group of people like it because they have a genuine interest.
Whichever group you’re in, you must understand that programming is a never-ending learning process. To be a professional, you must spend a few hours learning daily.
The only problem, however, is:
Many people hardly know where to start or how to go about it, but here’s the thing:
Today, the web homes multiple developers— sharing code samples, publishing tutorials, and discussing software development techniques. The online world supplies plenty of cost-free resources that can make you a coding expert.
However, starting to self-learn programming appears impossible. You’ll feel dumb. You’ll feel like giving up.
The best approach is to find a beginner guide to walk you through all the programming phases.
Unstuck Yourself From the Dilemma of Selecting a Programming language
Selecting a language is a hurdle that slows down almost every beginner — and there is lots of noise out there about it.
Instead of focusing on a programing language, put more effort into comprehending data control structure and design patterns.
After all, every programming language — even the simple scripting language — has elements you’ll use in other languages. All languages can do almost anything. Some are just better for mobile apps, others for games.
Pick a development project you want to do and get started using the language that works.
After choosing a project, the easiest way to coding mastery is don’t switch languages all the time — focus on only one.
Some of the development you might want include:
#1. Desktop Application Development
Before web apps, the world used desktop applications. It appears like web-based software are gradually pushing desktop applications out.
However, desktop applications are making a comeback in popularity.
With desktop application development, you can build applications for laptops and desktops. If you’re looking to develop desktop applications, you need to learn programming languages such as:
- C#
- C++
- Python
- Java
- JavaScript
- PHP
- Swift
- Red
- Go
#2. Web Development
To be a professional web developer, you’ll need languages such as:
- HTML
- CSS
- Javascript
- PHP
- Python
- Ruby on Rails
HTML and CSS
To build any website, you’ll need to know HTML (the markup that forms web pages) and CSS (the style information that improves the appeal of the markup.)
HTML and CSS are not true language but are just page structures and style information.
JavaScript
After laying out a static webpage with HTML and CSS, you can add more punch to the website with JavaScript — it makes a website interactive. This language communicates with the browser.
Server-Side Scripting
Once you’re good at making things happen inside a web page, you’ll need to add some dynamic serve-action behind it. You’ll need to advance to server-side-script languages like Ruby, PHP, Perl, or Python.
PHP side-server language talks to the database on your web server
Web APIs (Application Programming Interface)
An API is a programmatic way for distinct pieces of software to communicate with each other. Many modern sites have an API that allows users to include data and widgets from the websites in other applications, like Facebook and Twitter.
#3. Android Development
Hundreds of millions of mobile devices use the Android platform. The Android has gone from a market entrant to a dominant force — commanding 71% of the market share.
Learning Android development allows you to develop applications for Android users.
The programming languages you’ll use in developing Android applications are:
- Java
- Kotlin
#4. iOS Development
Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch operating systems run on the iOS platform. Apple provides tools and services for developing applications for iOS.
To execute iOS development, you need to learn:
- Swift
- Objective c
#5. Game Development
Game development can be one of the most satisfying creative pursuits. The only problem, however, is that game development is difficult.
It’s easy to get frustrated with game development, but the best approach is to have realistic expectations and build up your skills.
To be a great game developer, you can master the following languages:
- C#
- C++
#6. Automation Development
You can also choose to develop automation technologies for businesses. Automation is the core of nearly all technology for businesses.
Developing automation software require development skills such as:
- Python
- Golang
Computer programming integral in today’s tech-driven world
Follow Your North Star Today
Is it possible to be a professional self-learning programming?
Absolutely, but only if you approach it the right way.
Yes, you can start learning to program online. Yes, you can slowly learn from others. Yes, you can develop a popular software that connects you with people worldwide who need you and get paid pretty well in exchange.
But like anything worthwhile, it’s hard work getting there.
