The Best Software Engineering Advice | Prime Reacts

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The speaker advises against constantly chasing tech trends, recommends starting with foundational languages like C or Java, and emphasizes the importance of building a strong programming foundation rather than hopping between languages. They stress the value of intentional learning, finding joy in work, mastering tools, and focusing on practical benefits for personal and professional growth.

Insights

  • Emphasizing the importance of establishing a strong foundation in programming by starting with foundational languages like C or Java, rather than constantly chasing new trends, is crucial for long-term success in the field.
  • Advocating for intentional learning of new technologies, sticking with a language to master it, and focusing on building proficiency rather than delving into every intricate detail are key strategies for personal and professional growth in programming, highlighting the significance of dedication and consistency in skill development.

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Recent questions

  • How can I avoid constantly chasing new programming languages?

    By starting with a foundational language like C or Java, you can build a strong programming foundation. It is essential not to be a slave to tech trends and focus on intentional learning rather than constantly hopping between languages. Having a clear goal in mind for learning a new language or skill can help you stay focused and avoid getting caught up in chasing the latest trends.

  • What social media platforms influence programmers?

    Social media platforms like Twitter, YouTube, Reddit, and Twitch have a significant impact on programmers. Engaging with noise on these platforms can lead to discovering efficiencies in your job and enhancing overall efficiency. However, it is crucial to choose the right noise to engage with for personal and professional growth.

  • How can I find joy in programming?

    Finding joy in programming involves focusing on personal development, crafting experiences, and building projects you are proud of. It is crucial to avoid getting caught up in chasing the latest trends and instead focus on mastering a tool or language that you enjoy working with. Satisfaction in work comes from building something you are proud of, regardless of the field.

  • What is the speaker's approach to learning new languages?

    The speaker emphasizes the importance of intentional learning and sticking with a language rather than constantly chasing new trends. They recommend starting with a foundational language like PHP or JavaScript and progressing in one's career. The goal is to build a strong foundation in programming and avoid constantly hopping between languages.

  • Why is mastering a tool or language important in programming?

    Mastering a tool or language is crucial in programming as it allows developers to efficiently solve problems. CEOs and CTOs value developers who can proficiently use a language to build projects and solve challenges. Choosing the right language for a specific task, even if it is not personally preferred, can lead to better results and overall proficiency in programming.

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Summary

00:00

"Programming Advice: Build Strong Foundation, Avoid Trends"

  • The speaker shares advice after 20 years of programming experience.
  • Emphasizes the importance of not being a slave to the tech community's trends.
  • Warns against constantly chasing new languages and frameworks.
  • Mentions the value of starting with a foundational language like C or Java.
  • Discusses the diversity in programming backgrounds, including Lua and Roblox or Java and Minecraft.
  • Highlights the significance of understanding low-level concepts for C or C++ backgrounds.
  • Recommends starting with a language like PHP or JavaScript and progressing in one's career.
  • Discusses the influence of social media platforms like Twitter, YouTube, Reddit, and Twitch on programmers.
  • Advocates for intentional learning of new technologies rather than constantly hopping between them.
  • Stresses the importance of not getting caught up in chasing the latest trends and instead focusing on building a strong foundation in programming.

13:22

Mastering Rust: Proficiency Over Trends and Joy

  • Having a clear goal in mind is essential for learning a new language or skill.
  • The speaker's goal with Rust was to write basic C applications quickly and proficiently.
  • They aimed to master asynchronous programming and understand Rust at a functional level.
  • The focus was on proficiency rather than delving into every intricate detail of the language.
  • Learning async programming varies across languages, with JavaScript being simpler than Rust.
  • Despite the popularity of other languages like Elixir and OCaml, the speaker intentionally stuck with Rust.
  • They are now applying the same intentional approach to learning Go for a potential five-year specialization.
  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of sticking with a language and not constantly chasing new trends.
  • Programming, like any job, can become mundane over time, requiring finding joy in the challenges.
  • The speaker draws parallels between maintaining a long-term relationship and staying engaged in programming.

27:13

"Finding Joy in Work Through Mastery"

  • First job was disappointing, leading to a switch to mechanical engineering due to dissatisfaction with programming.
  • Working at fast food restaurants can be monotonous and frustrating, like using a dull tomato cutter.
  • Finding joy in work is crucial, focusing on personal development and crafting experiences.
  • Using tools like Vim configuration to enhance job efficiency rather than escape boredom is key.
  • Satisfaction from work comes from building something you're proud of, regardless of the field.
  • Money can complicate satisfaction levels once basic needs are met, leading to dissatisfaction.
  • Efficiency in work is important but not always necessary, especially in personal relationships.
  • Building projects for the sake of learning and enjoyment is valuable, not just for efficiency.
  • CEOs and CTOs value developers who can efficiently solve problems, regardless of the programming language used.
  • Mastering a tool or language is more important than the specific choice, with a humorous mention of Elixir being particularly appealing.

42:19

"Efficiency through noise: Choosing wisely for growth"

  • Engaging with noise can lead to discovering efficiencies in your job, enhancing overall efficiency.
  • Choosing the right noise to engage with is crucial for personal and professional growth.
  • Pursuing skills solely for financial gain may not always be beneficial in the long run.
  • Prioritizing practical benefits over spiritual or theoretical aspects is essential in skill development.
  • Focusing on languages with practical benefits and potential growth, like Rust and Go, can be advantageous.
  • Constantly switching between languages can hinder proficiency and lead to frustration.
  • Selecting the most suitable language for a task, even if not personally preferred, can yield better results.
  • Learning from mistakes is crucial for personal and professional growth.
  • Selecting the appropriate tool for a specific job is essential, even if it means deviating from personal preferences.
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