How to Learn to Code - 8 Hard Truths 

Waking up the next day and solving the problem immediately after having spent the night trying to solve it, is the most relatable thing I’ve ever heard.

100% agree, hard work is more valuable than talent.

As a person who did struggle for 1 year to learn my first programming language, the most important thing is this: Avoid complicated tutorials for now. Focus on learning through beginner friendly books that have interactive content. You need to know how to walk before you can run. And after you get the basics of a programming language, everything else becomes much easier. Edit: For those asking, the books that made me learn were a) Javascript In Less Than 50 Pages and b) Head First Javascript Programming.

The way I like to implement the “teach it to a 12 year old” learning method is to write notes for myself with enough detail that I can understand them long after I stopped using the knowledge. This forces me to understand the topic in the same way that’s required for teaching it to someone else (since I’m essentially teaching future me), and of course also gives me a great resource for when I want to relearn the topic

Nailed it. All points on here, just so spot on. Even down to not grinding too hard. I did that on a 2 week game jam one time where I was getting awful sleep because my mind was just constantly racing. Do 8 hours of work and then do another 8 of just working on my game. I was spiraling and near the end of it I was panicking on everything that still needed to be done.

After 5 years of working as a programmer after transitioning from geology, I relate so much to everything you said in this video. Especially the regular breaks. Even more if you're stuck on an error message

So.... a Software Engineer is just another way to call one a Googling Expert?

I am dumb, and a procrastinator. I have been trying to learn to code for 5 years, and still haven't written a line yet. This has motivated me to try writing a line again to hopefully make a game one day.

Wow, as a self taught dev, you explained everything in the way I’ve always wanted to, to any family and friends who think it’s so difficult and impossible to start. Well said

I've been watching your videos for a few weeks now and I gotta say - the best programming related RU-vid channel out there. You provide us beginners with both knowledge and motivation. Thanks a lot :)

Self-made coder, learned with youtube and experimentation, I'd add to this that you don't need education to code, if anything, education funnels you into coding styles and projects that don't necessarily appeal to you. Coding is a form of communication, and every human being communicates differently. I started with an obscure, simple language in an environment I was already invested in (code within a game), and it gave me the tools I needed to move to javascript and the transition was natural and easy once I had learned one language. Fireship here even nailed that "I want to solve that error before I go to bed", realizing you just can't at 4am, and instantly solving the issue after a good night's sleep. Am sure every coder on earth faced that at least once.

I know it's not a particularly complex coding language (if you can even call it that) but using that Feynman technique I learn bash scripting in a matter of days. It seriously works

I’m teaching my 2 best friends how to code simple algorithms, no fancy stuff They’re loving it so far and I recommended them your channel!

I've been struggling to learn code for a while with a full time job, little time, fatigue, frustration, high and low blood sugars and everything in between. This channel is the first resource I go to every time I feel my motivation and hope are fading. Thank you for all your amazing content.

You really “struck a chord” with me when you mentioned teaching to a 12 year old. I actually taught guitar for 12 years, and in doing so, I really learned the instrument on a deeper level than I would have ever imagined. Many of my students were about 12 years old. It even made me rework my entire approach to teaching advanced musical theory concepts. This is very sound advice.

All these points are pretty spot on. My biggest pitfall when I was learning to code was my defeatist attitude. I'd be discouraged majorly after finding something difficult or making some mistakes. Definitely not the best attitude to have when you're learning to develop software.

For any aspiring developer, get a proper IDE, it helps. VS Code is godsent in many cases. Second thing is not actively trying to memorize anything and everything, that's what the documentation is for. Third thing is that focus on creating a best solution for a problem, not the best possible code, because those can be two entirely separate things. And last, you can treat programming just as a job; you don't have to be passionate about every aspect of it.

Regarding point 7, there's this book called "Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less" that actually goes somewhat deep into why this "spacing effect" works (they don't actually use that term, but it's the same thing). And it's not just sleeping, it's really all about making your conscient brain not think about a given problem, and let your unconscious brain work it out. The book goes on about how this technique works much better for creative problems, like fixing a code problem, solving a math equation, and, obviously, finding creative inspiration for more artistic stuff. Also, they mention that the strategy that seems to work the best is to go on hikes/walks, but the most important thing is that you don't do these thinking about the problem, and rather just let your brain wander about all sorts of unrelated topics (kind of like meditation). Suddenly, and apparently out of the blue, an idea will suddenly strike you when you weren't even thinking about it: this never happens when you're actively thinking about a problem, or at least it will very rarely happen.

3:16 best description of coding as a hobby I've ever heard

One thing that can definitely help is having a goal. I’ve had a few friends attempt to start coding, but not have a goal to work towards. Without a goal, you end up just kinda going in circles and eventually quit.

I absolutely love this channel.. A real life developer explaining what the journey of becoming a programmer is without any sugar coating or bs. The quality of content on this channel is just way above any other programming channels I've come across on RU-vid

I've been programming for 5-6 years now and it is absolutely mind-blowing to see that book about php5 and mysql again. It's the same book that started my journey down the programming rabbit hole and it puts a smile on my face knowing you started there too!

This is one of the greatest videos ever. I was always complimented "how good I am at learning and making code", however, something just struck me. This whole time, I've been following the Feynman Technique without even knowing it. Incredible stuff

I unironically known more about assembly than python because no tutorial could teach me how to write a program without it being a copy paste, i could not solve any problem, and now here i am, learning X86 and ARM for reverse engineering because it is way more rewarding to have a IoT operating system writen in C++ that you got by reverse engineering it than to copy and paste python code

Teaching others is an amazing reinforcement technique for learning to program. Recruit someone to learn to program with you and use each other to teach what you learn. Much like dieting, you can hold each other accountable for making progress and it'll happen much faster than doing it on your own.

All of this is true. Taking breaks, going to sleep and teaching others what you're trying to learn help amazingly in actually learning and improving.

Not a programmer myself - but this video is golden to explain how to learn online. Love it!

Honestly, your videos have helped me grow as a Developer, and I relate so much to the spacing, mental health, stack overflowing questions till 3 AM. I am slowly learning to balance it all!

Hands down, this is your best video ever. I completely agree with you on putting your health first, taking breaks, helping others, and hacking your own subconscious routines.

As a person who is currently frustrated with teaching herself how to code, I can't thank you enough for this uplifting and super useful video🥺🙏

As a self-taught programmer, this is exactly what I needed to hear. I often feel very insecure around other developers, especially ones that went to college for computer science, but this video was very reassuring. Thank you

Found your channel and it feels so uplifting to hear that many other coders have struggled with learning a new language to simply don’t memorize it. Learning at a uni, they don’t tell you how you should be learning it or teach what you should be doing and always expect so much from you as if you are already a coding guru. They make it so stressful being in this mentality it makes want to give up. “What am I doing wrong??” (In the sense) Your tip of finding pattens though…🤔 is very handy to look out for, I never really thought of doing that. Really…thanks for the video.

Im starting a bootcamp in March, tried self learning many times but I just couldn't crack it. (e.g. I've learnt ruby, but struggle with rails). I'll come back to this post in 4 months time to share my progression!

Over the course of the past two years it's been amazing to see your style of content grow and improve Jeff. You went from explaining different tech to providing news, showcasing projects and more to providing life advice. You're almost like a big brother to us all. Thanks for all that you do!

This information applies to way more than just programming. It can be applied to trying to learn almost anything. Thank you for sharing

I wasnt worried at all and had already started programming......but then i saw the intro and subbed out of straight up terror. Guess marketing tactics really do work. Also the teaching part is really good. I write down notes for EVERYTHING during courses, but in my own words so i have to think about it. Then i think and try to really understand it and what it really means and what impacts it might have. Then i actually speak to an invisible audience and try to explain it in a way that no one who actually knows anything about it could understand. It forces you to actually think, understand and break down what it is youre learning, making it a whole lot more tangible and memorable. You think youre silly the first time you speak out loud in your apartment when youre alone, but being able to quickly explain your thoughts and use your words well is something thats beneficial in most real life situations, not just learning new things.

Nailed it. I think you covered it pretty well, and can't say enough how important it is to try to build things once you have the basics. Another great video from you Jeff.

This made me think, it would be really cool to see a Fireship video on health for software developers. Daily routines, tips, etc in the context of someone who has a lot of programming to do. Never thought about the fact that physical health is inherently tied to how efficient the brain works

Me encountering a problem "Maybe I should wait until morning to try to solve this." My ego: "Nah I'd win"

Thank you! Your videos are class, easy to watch, super useful and funny af! I just recently started learning to code and this channel quickly became one of my favourites! 👍

As someone who doesn't code for living but learnt to code because everyone around me does know it, I agree that this is the most relatable commentary out there! If this was a blog post, it should be featured on the blog's hall of fame!

I think that to be a good programmer you don't need to master every language and memorize all the syntax, you just need to learn how to learn.

This is one of the most realistic and honest videos about learning programming I’ve ever encountered! Kudos to your effort!

I've been trying to learn different things for almost 2 years and honestly this video is by far the best guide i have ever seen!

I think that was the most helpful "short" video i've seen on this platform 🙏 As a junior, all I can say is : thank you (and please don't ever stop making videos 😁)

Hands down your best video EVER. 100% agree on prioritizing your health first, taking breaks, helping others and hacking your own subconscious routines. Standing Ovation. :)))

This is incredibly true! Great video! All your content is amazing. I am not even an English speaker, however the way you express the whole idea makes easy to understand everything pretty clear. Thanks man, great job! Saludos desde Argentina 🇦🇷

Mother of god, this channel has helped me immensely in my learning journey. I still can't believe I've landed my first job as a programmer. Giant thanks to the author- your videos on webdev topic are the best(at least among the best), good luck with your channel and again thank you

Phenomenal video, this is hands down 10 years of experience in 10 differents companies from 10 different mentors, you are amazing dude, you have left your mark already...

The fourth tip is very important, to learn how programming you need consistency, and for that is essential to pay attention in your health. I know a lot of people that developed anxiety and others mental problems because they just work and study. Go out with your friends from time to time and practicing physical exercises can improve a lot your ability to learn.

This is really a good one. I have being watching your videos for 6-7 month. I think this is the best one so far. Thank you for such a good content.

This is the smartest video I've seen. Big respect to you for going through everything you went through and still kept your focus. I'm striving in my life to be like you. Tonight I will be setting goals for myself and keeping schedule on everything I write down. I will not give up on my dreams!

I cant express in words how much I like this RU-vid channel! Keep up the good work man!

Great video as usual dude! Everytime I start learning a new coding concept, the first thing I will do is imagine explaining it to my little brother (not a coder) in a way that makes him understand and get excited by it!

The spacing effect came naturally to me, as it does with a lot of software developers out there surely. Didn't know it was a thing. It's interesting how I can be having a lot of issues trying to come with a solution to a problem for countless hours and then after even a short coffee break, socializing and thinking about something else and then when I get back to it I end up coming up with a solution shortly after. Bigger issues usually require a more persistent spacing, like going outside and taking a nap.

This will be my favourite video on fireship, it nails everything I did since I started programming

Thank you soo much for actually pointing out the importance of health. This is why I love your content, you include all aspects of coding.

I've been a programmer for many years and always thought why it was easy to switch to other languages. Always telling myself it's because of the syntax. I never stood still by the fact we are problem solvers and know how to solve problems like how to use loops. You've opened my eyes and let me think way different about coding. Thank you for that.

"hit your keyboard until something cool happens" never before have my life been described in such a perfectly detailed way lmao

The last part is so true, many times I couldn't solve something and overwhelmed myself. Went back to it the next day and somehow fixed it right away.

this helps me a lot since I trapped in a negative feedback loop. Thank you so much for sharing your insights!

This is the best motivation I needed, some tiny bug took me 3hours to solve last night and made me doubt myself. Thanks man. Now questions is Where can I borrow a 12 year old

I have to admit, I watched a lot of your 100 second language reviews, but this is the one video that got me to subscribe. I started coding very recently, but I've been a musician for most of my adult life, so I know how it feels to think I am awesome just to realize I suck.

I love how you've incorporated staying healthy as a key step! 🚀It really is important. You just don't realize when you start out but once you accumulate enough hours of sitting in front of your computer you'll realize how important staying healthy is.

1:44 Most important thing is to remember patterns, the overall blueprint in putting things together and, yes, solving problems.

Very well explained everything you said is so accurate I'm glad that I found this channel on RU-vid

I’ve watched about 10 videos on how to start programming and I have little experience with BlueJ at school but this video is just perfect. Thank you!

As a guitarist, aviation lover, and coming back to learning coding... I love your metaphors here.

Great video! When I first started learning Python last May I was treating it like a race and ultimately got caught in a negative feedback loop where I wasn't able to make any progress--burning out in October. It took a month of recovery before I could approach things that weren't related to my health and it was only this week when I began to feel ready to revisit coding with a new mindset.

A ski coach once sent this to me: skills come from struggle. There is a lot of information around skill acquisition and most of it amounts to appropriate stress, followed by adequate rest to grow and improve. Stress + Rest = Growth. Stress has a negative connotation but in reality it’s the only thing thats ever evoked change. Don’t shy away from struggle. Embrace it!

This is so helpful thank you. I'm glad your channel is doing well you deserve your success.

Not only did I learn about programming but i learned a lot of principles of learning. Thank you!

beeing a 12 year old must be cool, cause you can explain things to yourself

I know I will get yelled at for saying this but from my personal experience learning both Javascript and Python side by side has been a huge help as a newbie. I know, one language is daunting enough but it helped me a lot learning the concepts of coding (problem solving). There were times I would get stuck learning understanding objects in Python, then later I would jump to JS and would somewhat get the concept.

Man i wish I had this video 10 years ago when I had to learn some of these tips the hard way! Excellent tip on using a RU-vid channel to apply the feynman technique

Fireship, thank you stating these points, you saying this has cleared up some of the roadblocks I've been facing recently

You are incredibly good motivational speaker dude xd Uhm, just an idea, can you do a video about IT Student/Senior (or any other) CV. How to make it, what should it include, or smth like that to help us land our first job. I would love to see that. Much love ! I appreciate you, continue with the great content !

I sincerely hope anyone out there thinking about starting to code finds your videos before any of the tech gurus' channels. You're honest and empirical

Music instrument analogy. Health prioritisation. Positive feedback loop. Nailed it completely.

Wow thank you for this, these type of videos mean alot since I've been trying to get into coding, but have no experience.

Truest truth. I'm in my early 30s and I agree with everything you say. Especially the parts about health and also taking regular breaks are probably the most underrated advices. Small side story about health: I started to get wrist pain in 2019. I could no longer hack for hours as I used to when I was a teenager or in my 20s. In 2019 I decided to get a split keyboard to tackle this pain. It helped a little bit but it wasn't addressing the source of the problem. It was part of my shitty way of telling my body "shut up, let me write code" but the body might someday say "no f U, you didn't take care of me" In 2020 things got worse. During the first lockdown time of the pandemic, I had such a crazy pain in my wrist that I couldn't work for 2 weeks. I couldn't play videogames either. I went to see a doctor. He asked me about my job and my hobbies. I told him coding is my job and my hobby and other hobbies include rock climbing, electrical guitar, Speedcubing, video games, ... Basically all stuff that's intensive for the hands. He told me "yeah you're out of luck, your hands are done. Stop all that stuff and don't overuse your hands. Find a new job and find new hobbies." I was just crushed after that. In August 2020 I went to see a different doctor (also specialised on hand area). He told me in kinder words that there is nothing that can be done. I carried on like this for another 9 months or so. Working, taking long breaks, not doing any of my hobbies. Whenever I played Nintendo switch, my pain would be insane and sometimes I couldn't work the next day. I started to watch more movies/TV shows. Anyways, this has a happy end, so sit tight. In May 2021, I saw a different doctor (not specialised for hands). I talked to her about other stuff like blood samples etc. Just before finishing my appointment, she asked if I had any other issues. I told her about my hand situation and that I fear I won't be able to do my job in the near future if this gets worse. She told me to check RU-vid for exercises and recommended me a German RU-vid channel (I live in Germany). I checked it out and it looked like hokus pokus. I gave it a try because I had nothing to lose and this has been the biggest life changer ever. My hands got better and better and in August 2021 I picked up the guitar again, I started coding in my free time again and it felt like my hands were reborn. It is not a permanent fix though. I added it to my daily routine to do these exercises in the morning after getting up. Takes me about 2 minutes for the hands. Take care of your body everyone. When I was younger I certainly did not do it enough.

I've learned some Python and I didn't really like it, so I moved on from embedded Lua and then moved to vanilla Lua. I prefer Lua over most programming languages because of their syntax, so in my opinion, if you're new or starting out, I recommend starting with embedded versions or simplified, then moving on to raw since it's easier to learn.

Dude you've become my favorite RU-vidr. I love the knowledge through humor approach you have loll

I can't explain how I like this channel even more every time I watch a video. Huge thanks to you man

Dude ! What a legend , so much clear info but also pure and greatly presented! Hahah and I love your sarcasm 🤭💁🏻‍♂️🤣

Wow...thanks for this. I found your videos just recently, and I've gone through the same process of disliking my current job, leave and try coding...in this case a 6 month bootcamp, feel completely hopeless upon completion, go back to a job that I don't really enjoy. I've recently decided to pursue coding again. Right now I'm back down in the lower valley of despair and trying to keep myself going. The two parts that stuck out the most were being conscious of your health and reprogramming your brain. Going from carpentry to coding is a huge reduction in activity, and I've been trying to learn learn learn without much in the way of applying. Overall, I really appreciate your videos and the insight you provide. Cheers!

I agree 100%. I am a application developer since 5 years and can’t agree more. Awesome video

thank you for sharing your perspective on learning code! Learn like a teacher..

I just started an internship in AI and Machine learning and before that I had a very small coding experience. 3 months in and I can feel the pressure of sitting down to code moving away and can confirm all what you said is absolutely true

I've been programming for 4.5 years, since I was 14 (wow time flies) I apply most of these on a daily basis, but I really have a hard time with breaking things up into smaller tasks, I always end up just creating a couple of large tasks that are "create x", which leads to that negative feedback loop making it harder to continue

Tbh for me the most satisfying thing in coding is when I fix a dumb mistake. I feel so elated and happy 😭

I love the comparison to guitar, I started out 5 years ago and I never stopped playing since. The next skill to learn is coding. So my journey begins :) thank you!!

When I wanted to learn react I watched a TON of youtube videos, and it never clicked with me. You know when I actually learnt react? I started vscode, and tried building a button. Just a button. Make it a bit pretty and all. And just like that everything just clicked instantly, I went from zero to button pro to hero in like 3 days, and since then, my first challenge when trying front end tools is to see if I can make a button.

Good content as always!

absolute gem of the videos... hope it reaches to as many programmers as possible

Man this video flew by in no time. Great content. Subscribed 👍

100% agree. Teaching has helped me learn so much better. Great video Jeffefaah

2:51 that sudden advertisement😂😂😂😂

this Chanel is so underrated. Best videos out there. can you do a video on hardhat? and ganache ?

R is how I got started. It’s made me want to learn about other programming languages which is why I’m on your channel. It would be cool to see an R in 100 seconds!