I Learned Java in 14 Days using THIS Framework (learn any language!)

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares how they learned Java in just 14 days despite having no prior experience with the language. They highlight key strategies like focusing on basic coding exercises, learning the fundamentals of how Java works, using an IDE effectively, and dedicating significant time to study. They also emphasize that learning a new programming language is much easier when you already understand the core concepts of programming logic. The video aims to reassure viewers that with the right approach, learning any programming language can be quicker and more accessible than expected.

Takeaways

• 😀 You can become competent in a new programming language in just 14 days, even if you’ve never used it before.
• 😀 Mastering the fundamentals of programming (like loops, variables, etc.) is key to learning any new language.
• 😀 Repetition is crucial when learning a new language. It helps make syntax second nature and improves muscle memory.
• 😀 Getting curious and researching concepts you don’t understand helps you gain a deeper understanding of the language.
• 😀 Using a good IDE like IntelliJ can accelerate learning by providing helpful features like function documentation and code tips.
• 😀 Expect to put in a significant amount of hours if you want to become proficient in 14 days, but setting a longer goal (like 30 days) is a better approach for most people.
• 😀 Learning fundamental computer science concepts (like how a programming language interacts with hardware) provides a deeper understanding of how programming works.
• 😀 Programming languages are different dialects of the same logic. Learning one language makes it easier to learn others since they share similar core concepts.
• 😀 Don’t be discouraged by the idea of choosing the wrong language—once you grasp programming logic, transitioning between languages is easy.
• 😀 A good IDE can help you learn faster by providing tools to understand syntax and libraries, but don’t rely on it too much at the start to ensure you’re learning the basics manually.

Q & A

How long did it take the speaker to become proficient in Java?

The speaker became proficient in Java within 14 days, going from having little knowledge to being able to function as a junior developer on a real project.

What is the main principle for learning a programming language in a short time frame?

The main principle is to focus on learning the fundamentals first, practicing a lot of basic exercises to get the syntax into muscle memory, and gradually increasing your understanding of the language's deeper concepts.

How does the speaker suggest learning a new programming language efficiently?

The speaker recommends taking a basic course, doing repetitive coding exercises to master syntax, researching confusing concepts, and using a good IDE to help streamline the learning process.

What was the speaker's approach to learning Java's basic syntax?

The speaker did basic coding exercises through a boot camp and a Udemy course to get a lot of repetitions with Java's syntax, even though the problems were not challenging from a logic perspective.

What resources did the speaker use to learn Java?

The speaker used a boot camp provided by their company, a basic Java course on Udemy, and Google searches to learn Java. They also used IntelliJ as an IDE for its helpful features.

Why does the speaker emphasize using an IDE like IntelliJ?

IntelliJ is optimized for Java, offering features like code suggestions and documentation pop-ups that help learn functions, methods, and classes more efficiently. However, the speaker cautions against relying too much on automated tools.

What is the importance of being curious while learning a programming language?

Curiosity helps the learner dive deeper into unfamiliar concepts, leading to a better understanding of the language. The more you understand how a language works, the more competent you'll become.

How much time did the speaker dedicate to learning Java in 14 days?

The speaker worked full-time on their boot camp and then continued learning after work from 5 PM to 9 PM, totaling many hours of focused study.

What advice does the speaker give for learning programming languages in general?

The speaker advises that programming languages are essentially different dialects of the same language of logic. Once you learn one language, learning others becomes easier because the core concepts are transferable.

What additional resource does the speaker recommend for those wanting to deepen their understanding of programming?

The speaker recommends taking a course like 'NAND to Tetris' on Coursera to learn fundamental computer science concepts related to computer architecture and how programming languages interact with hardware.