"I want to learn programming, but I don't know where to start," or "I'm worried about whether I can continue studying on my own." There are probably many working adults in their 20s with a liberal arts background who have similar concerns.
In this article, we will explain in detail how to learn programming on your own, so that even those with no experience or a liberal arts background can learn with confidence, and tips to avoid giving up. By focusing on specific study steps and points to note, you can acquire skills efficiently and pave the way for a side job or career change.
The importance of goal setting and study planning
Why do we need goals?
conclusion
Without a clear goal, learning will not last long.
reason
If you can't see the goal of your studies, you will lose track of why you are doing it and will be likely to lose motivation along the way.
Examples
"Complete your portfolio in six months to change jobs" or "Earn 50,000 yen a month with a side job"
Setting clear goals with numbers and deadlines will change your behavior.
reassertion
Let's start by clarifying our goal.
Tips for creating a study plan
conclusion
Simply scheduling your learning will increase your chances of success.
reason
This is because people can act without hesitation as long as they know "what to do and when."
Examples
• Monday is HTML, Tuesday is CSS, Wednesday is review, etc.
• For example, "Proceed with one course for 30 minutes a day for 5 days" on a weekly basis.Self-paced and adaptable
reassertion
It doesn't have to be a perfect plan, just make one that is easy to stick to.
Selection of study language and use of study materials
Choose the right language for your needs
conclusion
Choosing the right programming language for your purpose is the key to success.
reason
Different languages have different strengths, and if you choose a language that doesn't suit your purpose, it will be difficult to maintain your motivation.
Examples
• Web development → HTML, CSS, JavaScript
• Data Analysis → Python
• App development → Swift (iOS) and Kotlin (Android)
reassertion
If your purpose is clear, the best language will become clear.
How to choose learning materials for beginners
conclusion
Choosing the right study materials for your level can greatly affect your learning efficiency.
reason
If you try to learn material that is too difficult, you will not be able to understand it and will end up giving up.
Examples
• Books such as the "Sukkiri Series" and "Fun Introduction to ○○" are popular.
• Progate and Dotinstall are the standard for online learning materials.
• Things that allow you to move your hands are effective.
reassertion
The golden rule for beginners is to lower the difficulty level and start with materials that you can understand.
Output-oriented learning method
Why is output important?
conclusion
Output is what leads to true understanding.
reason
By using what you have learned to create something with your own hands, it becomes easier to retain the knowledge.
Examples
• Create a simple profile site
• Blog about what you've learned
• Post your code on GitHub
reassertion
Learning without output is a house of cards.
Output habits for continued development
conclusion
Small daily outputs will help develop your ability to continue.
reason
If you try to do it all at once, you will likely give up, but it is daily progress that will bring great results.
Examples
• Solve one programming problem every day
• Post what you learned on X (formerly Twitter)
• Set a challenge to create one mini app every week
reassertion
"Putting your hands to work for just five minutes every day" is the first step to success.
Creating a mindset and environment to avoid failure
Tips for staying motivated
conclusion
Get through it by forming habits rather than relying on emotions.
reason
Motivation comes in waves, but habits never fail.
Examples
• Study at set times, such as right after waking up in the morning or before going to bed.
• Visualize your records with a task management app
• Share your learning results on social media and get encouragement from the responses.
reassertion
The golden rule for continuing is to "learn through a system, not relying on motivation."
Get help from your friends and the environment
conclusion
Even if you are studying on your own, it is important to have an environment where you feel like you are not alone.
reason
If you have friends to study with, you can ask for advice and get inspiration when you get stuck.
Examples
• Join the Discord and X learning communities
• Utilizing the online school's Slack group
• Participate in study sessions and workshops
reassertion
"Being in a learning environment" helps maintain motivation.
What to do when you encounter an error or a problem
The right way to deal with errors
conclusion
See errors as a sign of growth.
reason
Rather than fearing failure, exploring the causes will deepen your knowledge.
Examples
• Read and search error messages
• Search Stack Overflow or teratail
• Make a note of how to resolve the error
reassertion
Research ability is also a great skill.
How to get help when you can't solve the problem yourself
conclusion
If you don't understand something, don't hesitate to ask a question.
reason
Asking early will help the problem be resolved more quickly, rather than wasting time trying to move forward.
Examples
• Post polite questions on teratail etc.
• Ask for advice on "# programming beginner" on X
• Ask a question on ChatGPT
reassertion
"Asking is only a momentary shame, not asking is a lifelong loss."
Summary: Don't worry about self-study! The path to success
• Don't get lost with clear goals and schedules
• Learn with the language and materials that suit you
• Emphasis on hands-on output
• Improve your ability to continue by forming habits and making friends
• Have the attitude of viewing errors as opportunities for growth
Self-study can sometimes feel lonely, but these days it's easy to access information and friends.
If you approach it with the right methods and habits, even if you have no experience you can get close to the professional world.