How to Get Ahead of 99% of Developers (Starting Today)

Summary

In this video, a seasoned developer shares 20 pieces of advice for aspiring coders and entrepreneurs. The tips range from overcoming the fear of starting and avoiding perfectionism, to focusing on solving real problems and shipping actual products. Emphasizing the importance of consistency, project-based learning, and managing scope, the speaker urges viewers to keep their learning process practical and goal-oriented. Key lessons also include the importance of version control, setting deadlines, and building a strong marketing strategy, all aimed at achieving long-term success in coding and app development.

Takeaways

• 😀 Your idea doesn't matter as much as the execution. Focus on building and improving, even if the idea isn't unique.
• 😀 Start coding now, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day. Don’t wait for motivation.
• 😀 Make 'no zero days' a habit to avoid losing momentum in your learning and projects.
• 😀 Know your end goal: whether it's building apps, landing a job, or freelancing, and align your learning path.
• 😀 Don’t get stuck choosing the 'perfect' language. Pick one and stick with it for faster progress.
• 😀 Use tutorials sparingly. They’re helpful, but apply what you learn immediately in your own projects to retain information.
• 😀 Avoid overrelying on AI. Learn the fundamentals first, then use AI to speed up tasks once you understand the code.
• 😀 Project-based learning is the best method. Work on real projects and solve actual problems to deepen your understanding.
• 😀 Focus on solving real problems, whether they’re personal or something you’ve noticed in the world around you.
• 😀 Write reusable, modular code from the start to save time on future projects and avoid reinventing the wheel.
• 😀 Organize your work using a simple project management tool (like Notion or Trello) to track tasks, bugs, and features.

Q & A

What is the most important factor when building an app or landing a software engineering job?

The most important factor is execution, not the idea itself. Many ideas have been done before, and it's the ability to execute them well that truly matters.

Why is it crucial to start coding now, even if you don't feel fully ready?

Starting now helps build momentum and ensures you consistently practice. Delaying action only hinders progress, and consistent effort every day is key to mastering coding.

What does the 'No Zero Days' rule mean, and why is it significant?

'No Zero Days' means coding every day, even if it’s just for 30 minutes. This builds a habit and ensures that you retain knowledge and maintain momentum.

How can knowing your goal help you stay motivated during coding?

Knowing your goal helps you stay focused, even on tough days. It acts as a guiding light when you're feeling unmotivated, reminding you of the bigger picture of what you're working towards.

How do you choose a programming language for your project?

Pick a language that suits your project needs and one you're comfortable with. Don’t worry about which language is the 'best' overall, just choose one and stick with it to avoid slowing down progress.

Why is over-reliance on tutorials considered a trap?

Tutorials can give the illusion of progress but can leave you feeling lost when trying to implement solutions on your own. The key is to use tutorials to understand syntax and concepts, then apply them to your own projects.

What is the problem with relying too much on AI in coding?

Using AI without understanding how your code works can lead to 'AI hell', where you depend on AI to fix bugs without understanding the underlying issues. It’s essential to learn the concepts before asking AI for help.

What is the benefit of project-based learning in coding?

Project-based learning allows you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios, helping you solidify your knowledge and problem-solving skills. It’s a more hands-on approach compared to purely theoretical learning.

What advice is given for avoiding 'scope creep' in your projects?

To avoid scope creep, focus on the core features of your project and make sure your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is simple and functional. Adding unnecessary features early can delay progress and hinder your ability to ship.

How do you stay motivated while working on a long-term project like coding or building an app?

One way to stay motivated is to track your progress. Seeing what you've accomplished, no matter how small, can provide a boost and help you stay focused on the long-term goal.