Is Coding Hard? What You Need to Know

A MacBook with lines of code on its screen on a busy desk

When most people think of coding, they think of computer programming. They may assume that only programmers will get a lot out of coding. But coding is quickly becoming a highly sought-after skill, even in other industries.

Whether you are considering coding because of a career shift, to get an edge, or just as a hobby, you’re probably wondering how hard it will be. We’re taking a look at this as well as ways you can make it easier to learn and improve your coding skills.

What Is Coding?

Machines cannot understand our everyday languages. In order to get them to understand, we use other specific languages. Programming, or coding, is the process of transforming instructions into a form that machines can understand.

We code in languages that are still easy for humans to write and read. Once the code is finished, it’s compiled and converted to an executable file. In this form, the computer can now run the program.

There are hundreds of programming languages. But you’ve probably already heard of more popular ones, such as C++, Java, and Python.

Is It Difficult to Learn?

Two people learning to code on a computer

While programming languages are meant to be relatively easy for computers and humans to understand, it isn’t easy to learn them. After all, these are basically different languages with their own vocabulary and rules.

Different programming languages work better for different types of projects. You’ll most likely need to learn two or more languages when learning how to code.

Why?

The first thing that hangs up many people is choosing which language to learn. With new ones still being created, knowing where to start can be difficult.

Once you begin, you need to learn the vocabulary the language uses. Those without a technical background or other programming foundations often find this hard. Plus, on top of this, you need to be able to understand logical statements. Working with abstract concepts and turning them into statements is often difficult for beginners.

It’s not necessarily easy to find resources to get started with coding. There is a variety available, but you need to sift through to find one that is easy to use and works for your goals. Simply getting started can be a stumbling block to many.

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How Long Does it Take to Learn Coding?

The timeline to learn to code will vary greatly depending on what method you are using to learn. Some people jump into a bachelor’s degree, especially if they are starting from the beginning. This usually takes about four years.

You can also learn through an online course. This is a good option if you don’t necessarily need a degree and want to start at the basics. Most people take about three to six months to learn the foundations of coding.

Then, you can move on to a specialty, such as artificial intelligence. These more advanced courses may take an additional six to nine months.

How to Begin

A man in a blue shirt working on computer code

Building a strong base foundation in the basics is key to learning how to code. It would be best to do this before moving on to other, more complex topics.

In addition, you should learn about the different types of programming languages. After this, you can move on to choosing and learning a specific language. Keep in mind that this is an important decision. Make sure your first programming language is one you care about and can use, as it will build your motivation to learn more.

You’ll also need to decide how you will learn. There are a variety of free resources available online. Perusing these sites can help you build a foundation and learn more about what you want to learn about. We recommend checking out online videos and tutorials, articles and ebooks, and forums.

Finding and working through a coding boot camp can make it easier to learn efficiently. There are many online courses available, so make sure to choose one that fits your goals and has a well-structured format.

Finding and getting involved with an online community is sometimes key to keeping going. Building your network is a great way to build motivation. It also gives you an outlet to ask questions and learn more. This can be especially helpful once you start working on actual projects.

Tips to Improve at Coding

Learning to code doesn’t come with a finish line; you’ll need to keep updating your skills and resume as the field constantly changes. If you don’t, you’ll become obsolete, making it nearly impossible to find a competitive job.

Finding a mentor is a great way to get one-on-one help. They can help you decide what path to take in your career and help keep you motivated. A mentor can also help you work through your projects.

Building a portfolio is key to finding a job as a programmer. It highlights your skills and showcases your abilities. Once you start the job hunt, your portfolio will help show potential employers that you are serious and professional.

Be sure to include both technical and non-technical projects. You may also want to tailor your portfolio to the jobs you are applying for. We recommend including a small blurb about each project to explain it.

Working on a side project is a great activity to include in your portfolio. Plus, it will give you the necessary experience working through real-world problems.

It’s easy to forget, but your soft skills are also important in coding. You need to be able to communicate effectively with your team members. Practice talking about your project in a way anyone on the streets would understand.

Problem-solving skills are also key soft skills to work on. Coding is rife with problems that will come up that you’ll need to solve. Figure out how to determine a problem, test a solution, and resolve the entire problem in a timely manner.